noun
coterie
KOH-tuh-ree
Coterie (noun) means a small, close-knit group of people who share an interest or purpose and who keep others at a distance. Example: “He was surrounded by a coterie of loyal advisers.”
noun
1
A small, close-knit group of people who share an interest or purpose and who keep others at a distance.
"He was surrounded by a coterie of loyal advisers."
"A coterie of young poets met above the bookshop every Thursday."
How to use coterie
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small tight group that keeps outsiders out.
When to use it
Literary and formal. Common in profiles, criticism and political writing.
Memory tip
Coterie takes a singular verb in most British usage when treated as a unit: 'his coterie was unimpressed'.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
a coterie of advisers
small coterie
inner coterie
literary coterie
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He was surrounded by a _____ of loyal advisers.
Etymology
From French coterie, which earlier meant an association of tenants holding land together, from Old French cotier 'cottager', from cote 'a cottage'.
Related words
Rhymes for coterie
See all rhymes for coterie →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a coterie and a clique?
Both are small exclusive groups, but clique is more clearly negative and suggests schoolyard social exclusion. Coterie is more literary and often implies shared intellectual, artistic or political interests, so it can be used neutrally or even admiringly.
How do you pronounce coterie?
The usual pronunciation is KOH-tuh-ree, with the stress on the first syllable. The final syllable rhymes with 'ee', not with 'ay'.
Is coterie a negative word?
It leans slightly negative because it implies exclusivity, but the tone depends on context. 'A coterie of admirers' hints at sycophancy, whereas 'a coterie of scholars' is close to neutral.
What is the meaning of coterie?
"coterie" (noun) means a small, close-knit group of people who share an interest or purpose and who keep others at a distance.
