1. small exclusive groups of people who share common interests or attitudes and do not readily allow others to join them
Usage: plural of clique

Examples

• The high school was divided into several cliques based on interests and social status.
• She struggled to fit in because the existing cliques seemed unwelcoming to newcomers.
• The workplace had formed cliques that made collaboration difficult.
• Popular students often formed cliques that excluded others from their activities.
• Teachers worked to break up cliques and encourage more inclusive friendships.
• The drama club and sports teams had developed into separate cliques.
• Social media can reinforce existing cliques by limiting interaction with outsiders.