1. 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.