Definition

Tending to stick closely to a group and not welcome outsiders.

Example

The clannish community rarely interacted with people from outside their neighborhood.

Conversation

Have you noticed how clannish some groups can be at school?

Yeah, it's like they only want to hang out with their own friends.

I feel a bit left out sometimes because of that.

Same here! I wish they would be more open to new people.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clannish → It originates from the word 'clan' (from Gaelic *clann*, meaning offspring or family) and the suffix '-ish' (meaning having the quality of). The word 'clannish' describes a tendency to be exclusive or protective of one's family or group.

Memory Tip

Think of 'clan' as a family or group, and '-ish' means having the quality of. So, 'clannish' refers to being protective or exclusive like a close-knit family.

Visually Confused Words