English Dictionary
Definition of “clique”
clique (kliːk
;klɪk)
Definitions
noun
- a small, exclusive group of friends or associates
Alternative Forms
ˈcliquish adjective ˈcliquishly adverb ˈcliquishness noun Word Origin
C18: from French, perhaps from Old French: latch, from cliquer to click; suggestive of the necessity to exclude nonmembers
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
=
group,
set,
crowd,
pack,
circle,
crew,
gang,
faction,
mob,
clan,
posse,
coterie,
schism,
cabal,
Usage examples
The ultimate compliment you could pay the Virgins was to describe them as an aloof clique of sex bores.
David Cavanagh, MUSIC FOR BOYS (2003)In other words, an elaborate clique of politician-contractors is out to hijack the rebuilding process.
India Today (2002)What became of the clique of pretty girls whom everyone called the "Prefects?
Ottawa Sun (2003)I remember hearing the roars and crashes of his room as the Botham clique entertained themselves away from the hoi polloi.
Times, Sunday Times (2004)The Grand Remonstrance was a step too far for him and he joined a clique of MPs who switched their loyalties to the King.
Benjamin Woolley, THE HERBALIST: Nicholas Culpeper Rebel Physician (2004)
