nepotism

/ˈnɛp.ə.tɪ.zəm/

Etymology

Borrowed from French népotisme, from Italian nepotismo, from Latin nepōs (“nephew”), a reference to the practice of popes appointing relatives (most often nephews) as cardinals during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Why this word is great

NEPOTISM — [Noun] The favoring of relatives or personal friends in professional or political appointments due to their relationship rather than their abilities. From French népotisme, from Italian nepotismo, from Latin nepōs ("nephew"), referencing the historical practice of popes appointing relatives (often nephews) as cardinals. Unlike "meritocracy" (where ascent is earned) or "cronyism" (which trades on friendship rather than blood), nepotism is the quiet tyranny of lineage. It is the unqualified son inheriting the family firm, the middling cousin fast-tracked to tenure, the dull but well-connected niece handed a diplomatic post—proof that biology, not brilliance, often holds the keys to power.

noun

The favoring of relatives (most strictly) or also personal friends (more broadly) because of their relationship rather than because of their abilities.“Nepotism can get you very far in the world if you've got the right connections.”