Clannish Meaning in English
word
Definition
Describes people who stick closely to their own group and exclude others, often making outsiders feel unwelcome.
Usage & Nuances
Somewhat formal, usually negative. Common with groups, families, or school cliques. Avoids outside involvement. Similar to 'exclusive' but with more of a social barrier. Not used for individuals acting alone.
Example Sentences
The club was very clannish and did not accept new members.
basic
Some families are so clannish that outsiders feel uncomfortable.
basic
Their group at school is quite clannish and ignores everyone else.
basic
I tried to join their conversation, but they were a little too clannish for me.
natural
It can be hard to fit in when a team acts in such a clannish way.
natural
Their neighborhood has a reputation for being pretty clannish—everyone knows each other but keeps to themselves.
natural