Definition

Noun: A crony is a close, long-standing friend or companion, often implying a relationship based on shared activities, loyalty, and sometimes mutual benefit, particularly in informal or social contexts.

Usage

The word "crony" is used to refer to a very close friend, often with whom one spends a lot of time. It can sometimes carry a neutral or slightly informal tone. In modern usage, it is frequently used in the plural form "cronies" and can have a negative connotation when implying that the friendship is based on favoritism or unethical mutual support, especially in politics or business.

Examples

• He went to the pub with his cronies.
• The mayor was accused of giving government contracts to his political cronies.
• They've been cronies since their school days.

Advanced Usage

• "Crony capitalism": An economic system where success in business depends on close relationships between business people and government officials. It implies that favors, such as licenses, tax breaks, or government contracts, are handed out to friends and associates rather than through fair, open competition.
  • The country's economy suffered from widespread crony capitalism.
• "Cronyism" (noun): The practice of favoring one's friends, especially by giving them jobs. This is the abstract noun form describing the unethical system or act.
  • The appointment was a clear case of cronyism.

Variants and Related Words

• Cronyism (n): The practice of partiality in awarding jobs and other advantages to friends or trusted colleagues, especially in politics.
• Cronyist (adj/n): Relating to or characteristic of cronyism; a person who engages in cronyism.

Synonyms

• Friend: A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection. (More general and neutral.)
• Pal: An informal term for a friend. (Informal and friendly.)
• Buddy: A close friend; a companion. (Informal, often used in American English.)
• Chum: A close friend. (Somewhat old-fashioned or British informal.)
• Mate: A friend or companion. (Common in British and Australian English.)
• Associate: A partner or colleague in business or work. (More formal and less personal.)

Antonyms

• Enemy
• Foe
• Stranger
• Adversary

Notes on Connotation

While "crony" literally means a close friend, its contemporary use often implies a closed, exclusive, and potentially corrupt circle. The phrase "cronies" suggests a group of friends who support each other's interests, sometimes unfairly. Therefore, context is crucial: it can be used affectionately among old friends but is frequently critical in discussions about politics, business, or nepotism.

Noun

1. a close friend who accompanies his buddies in their activities