clique
UK[kliːk]US[kliːk]
n
A small, exclusive group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
Etymology
The word 'clique' was borrowed into English from French in the early 18th century, carrying the sense of a small, exclusive faction. The French term itself originated from the Old French 'cliquer', meaning 'to make a noise' or 'to click', likely imitative of the sound of a latch closing. This auditory metaphor evolved to imply a tight-knit, closed group, much like a door clicking shut. The term's journey reflects a shift from a literal sound to a powerful social metaphor for exclusivity and insularity.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword from French. Its spelling and form are treated as a single unit in English.
Examples
She felt excluded from the popular clique at school.
The company's management was controlled by a powerful clique of senior executives.
He refused to join any political clique, preferring to remain independent.