Pronunciation: /ˈklɪkɪʃ/

Definitions of cliquish

adjective showing a tendency to form exclusive groups and exclude others

Example Sentences

A1 The group of friends at school is very cliquish and doesn't let anyone else join.

A2 The office environment can be quite cliquish, making it hard for new employees to feel included.

B1 The neighborhood association has a cliquish atmosphere, with certain members excluding others.

B2 The elite social club was known for its cliquish behavior, only allowing in those who met specific criteria.

C1 The political party was criticized for its cliquish nature, with power concentrated among a small group of members.

C2 The academic department was known for its cliquish tendencies, with certain professors forming exclusive circles.

Examples of cliquish in a Sentence

formal The exclusive country club was known for its cliquish atmosphere, making it difficult for new members to feel welcome.

informal I tried to join the group of moms at school, but they were so cliquish and never let anyone else in.

slang The cool kids at school were so cliquish, always hanging out together and ignoring everyone else.

figurative The industry was known for being cliquish, with only those who were well-connected able to succeed.

Grammatical Forms of cliquish

past tense

cliqued

plural

cliquishes

comparative

more cliquish

superlative

most cliquish

present tense

cliques

future tense

will clique

perfect tense

have cliqued

continuous tense

is cliquing

singular

cliquish

positive degree

cliquish

infinitive

to clique

gerund

cliquing

participle

cliqued

Origin and Evolution of cliquish

First Known Use: 1700 year
Language of Origin: French
Story behind the word: The word 'cliquish' originated from the French word 'clique', meaning a small exclusive group or circle.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a group that is exclusive and often seen as unfriendly or unwelcoming, the word 'cliquish' has evolved to also imply a sense of loyalty and camaraderie within a close-knit group.