Langimage
English

clannish

|clan/nish|

C1

/ˈklænɪʃ/

exclusive loyalty

Etymology
Etymology Information

'clannish' originates from the word 'clan,' which comes from the Gaelic word 'clann,' meaning 'family' or 'offspring.'

Historical Evolution

'clannish' evolved from the word 'clan' in the 19th century to describe behaviors associated with strong group loyalty.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'related to a clan or family,' but over time it evolved to describe exclusivity and loyalty to one's group.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

inclined to associate exclusively with the members of one's own group; exhibiting a strong sense of loyalty to one's own group.

The community was known for its clannish behavior, rarely interacting with outsiders.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/08 04:22