Clannishness: meaning, definitions and examples

👥
Add to dictionary

clannishness

 

[ ˈklænɪʃnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

social behavior

Clannishness refers to the tendency to be exclusive or loyal to one's own group, often to the exclusion of others. It is the practice of forming tight-knit, insular groups that prioritize the needs and interests of their own members over those of outsiders.

Synonyms

exclusive, insular, loyal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
clannishness

Used to describe a tendency to associate only with a particular group and to avoid others. It often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of openness and inclusivity.

  • Their clannishness made it difficult for newcomers to feel welcome in the community
exclusive

Indicates something that is limited to a specific group, often with a sense of elitism. It is generally used in formal or professional settings.

  • The club had an exclusive membership policy, accepting only the wealthiest individuals
insular

Describes a person or community that is uninterested in or unaware of different cultures or ideas. The term often suggests narrow-mindedness.

  • Her insular attitude prevented her from appreciating the benefits of cultural diversity
loyal

Refers to someone who is faithful and supportive to a person, cause, or institution. It generally has a positive connotation, expressing dedication and trustworthiness.

  • He remained loyal to his company even during difficult times

Examples of usage

  • Her clannishness made it difficult for her to make friends outside of her tight-knit group.
  • The clannishness of the community made it challenging for newcomers to integrate.

Translations

Translations of the word "clannishness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espírito de clã

🇮🇳 जातिवाद

🇩🇪 Klüngelei

🇮🇩 kesukuan

🇺🇦 клановість

🇵🇱 klanowość

🇯🇵 部族意識

🇫🇷 esprit de clan

🇪🇸 espíritu de clan

🇹🇷 aşiretçilik

🇰🇷 족벌주의

🇸🇦 العشائرية

🇨🇿 klanovost

🇸🇰 klanovosť

🇨🇳 宗族意识

🇸🇮 klanovstvo

🇮🇸 ættlægð

🇰🇿 рухани туыстық

🇬🇪 კლანურობა

🇦🇿 qəbiləçilik

🇲🇽 espíritu de clan

Etymology

The term 'clannishness' originated from the word 'clannish', which first appeared in the early 19th century in the context of describing groups with strong family or social ties. The root of the word can be traced back to the Gaelic word 'clann', meaning family or descendants. Over time, 'clannishness' has come to be associated with the idea of exclusivity and loyalty within a group, often at the expense of inclusivity. The concept has been studied in sociology and psychology to understand group dynamics and behavior.

See also: clan, clannish, clansman.