cronyism etymology

Etymology:

  • "Crony" (a close friend or companion) + "-ism" (a distinctive practice or system)

Meaning:

Cronyism refers to the practice of favoritism towards friends or associates, especially in the allocation of jobs or contracts. It involves using one's position of power or influence to benefit a specific group of individuals who are personally connected to the power-holder.

Origin:

The term "cronyism" has its roots in the 18th-century English word "crony," meaning a close friend or companion. It was first used in the sense of favoritism in the mid-1800s. The term gained popularity during the 20th century as a way to describe the close relationships between politicians and special interest groups that often result in corruption and the misuse of public funds.

Historical Context:

Cronyism has been a persistent problem in many societies and political systems throughout history. It becomes particularly prevalent when powerful individuals or groups are able to influence decision-making processes without proper oversight or accountability. Notable examples of cronyism include the Tammany Hall machine in New York City and the patronage system in the United States during the 19th century.

cronyism relate terms

  • crony

    Etymology The word crony derives from the Middle English word cronie which means a c

  • chrono

    Etymology and Meaning The word chrono is derived from the Greek word χρόνος k

  • discrimination

    Etymology The word discrimination originates from the Latin word discriminare which

  • squander

    Etymology Middle English scaterin scateren Old English scaterian Proto Germanic sk

  • perfection

    Etymology From Latin perfectionem state of being complete finished or flawless

  • avarice

    Etymology French avarice Medieval Latin avaritia Latin avēre to have or desire

  • algebra

    Etymology The word algebra comes from Arabic الجبر al jabr meaning reunion

  • Cincinnati

    Etymology The name Cincinnati is derived from the Latin phrase Cincinnatus qui colit

  • carbohydrate

  • monument

    Etymology The word monument originates from the Latin word monumentum which means

  • rehabilitation

    Etymology The word rehabilitation originates from the Latin verb rehabilitare which