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Definition of clique

A small, exclusive group or circle of people who do not welcome the inclusion of others.
"The clique formed a circle to exclude the interferance of others."

Detailed Meaning of Clique

It can also describe a group of people who are united by a shared interest or goal, and who are often exclusive or elitist in their attitudes towards others. For example, a group of friends who only hang out with each other and who exclude other people might be described as a clique. A group of people who are united by a shared hobby or interest and who are exclusive or selective in their membership might also be seen as a clique. The term is often used to describe groups of people who are exclusive or selective in their social interactions, and who are seen as being cliquish or clannish.

Example Sentences for Clique

1. The clique of popular girls always sat together at lunch.
2. He felt left out of the clique at his new school.
3. The clique of friends went to the club together.
4. She was not interested in being part of any clique.
5. The clique of coworkers often went out for drinks after work.
6. The clique of elite athletes trained together every day.

Origin and Etymology of Clique

The noun 'clique' has its origins in the French word 'clique,' which meant 'a small group of like-minded people.' It entered the English language in the 18th century with a similar meaning. The term 'clique' has always been associated with exclusivity and the idea of a small, tightly-knit group that is often resistant to including others. It typically implies an inner circle that may be difficult to join or penetrate. The etymology of 'clique' underscores its historical connotation of a select and often closed group, emphasizing the idea that membership is restricted to those who share common interests, values, or social bonds.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun clique:

open group

welcoming

inclusive

circle

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Clique

1. She was not sure how to break into the clique of students in her major.
2. The clique of gamers spent hours playing together online.
3. He wanted to start a clique of like-minded individuals to discuss politics.
4. The clique of fashion bloggers were always dressed in the latest trends.
5. The cabinet is a privileged clique of old Etonians who look down on working-class ambition.
6. College was full of campus cliques that were notoriously difficult to join.
7. There was little chance of newcomers joining a clique after the freshman year.
8. The society is dominated by a small clique of intellectuals.
9. It took great effort and perseverance to be accepted into their long-standing clique.
10. They are a clique of loyal music fans who have followed their idols for many years.
11. High school often has cliques that can be exclusionary.
12. The workplace clique can sometimes lead to office politics.
13. The social dynamics of a clique can be challenging to navigate.
14. Her refusal to join the clique cost her some friendships.
15. Breaking into an established clique can be difficult.
16. The clique's closed-off nature alienated potential friends.
17. Cliques in college can form around shared interests.
18. Some people find comfort in belonging to a clique.
19. Cliques can be both supportive and exclusionary.
20. The clique's influence extended beyond school.
21. Joining a new school can mean confronting cliques.
22. The clique's unity made them a force to be reckoned with.
23. She resisted the allure of joining the clique.
24. In the workplace, cliques can hinder collaboration.