Cliquish

/ˈkliːkɪʃ/ adjective

Definition

Characteristic of or tending to form cliques; exclusive and reluctant to include outsiders.

Etymology

From 'clique' + '-ish' (adjective-forming suffix). The primary formal adjective related to 'clique,' used since the 1800s.

Kelly Says

The '-ish' suffix often carries a judgment—'cliquish' feels more critical than 'cliquey,' and 'coldish' is more dismissive than just 'cold.' Suffix choice shapes meaning subtly!

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