PoliticsJuly 17, 2026

coterie

ˈkoʊtəri

Definition

A small, exclusive group of people who associate closely and share common interests or purposes.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word 'cotier', meaning tenant or peasant farmer who shared land and dues with others. It evolved into the modern sense of a restricted social or political circle.

In the news

In this article, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse uses the term to describe a select group of wealthy donors supporting the President. It implies a sense of insularity and influence that the Senator views critically.

Reactions to Trump's election integrity speech, are well, divisive

Read the full article ↗

USA Today

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