noun
- the practice of favoring one’s close friends, especially in political appointments
Examples
- The mayor was accused of cronyism for appointing his college roommate as city treasurer.
- Cronyism in government undermines public trust in democratic institutions.
- The company’s hiring practices showed clear signs of cronyism rather than merit-based selection.
- Political cronyism often leads to unqualified people holding important positions.
- The scandal revealed widespread cronyism in the awarding of government contracts.
- Citizens demanded transparency to prevent cronyism in public office appointments.