old-boy network

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old-boy network

(ōld′boi′)

An informal, exclusive system of mutual assistance and friendship through which men belonging to a particular group, such as the alumni of a school, exchange favors and connections, as in politics or business: "Working-class kids ... had no old-boy network to turn to in times of trouble" (Bill Barich).

old′-boy′ net`work

(ˈoʊldˈbɔɪ)
n.

a network through which men of the same profession, social class, school, affiliation, or the like assist one another in business, politics, etc.

[1955–60]

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References in periodicals archive ?

The old-boy network of picking judges never failed.

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Rosen, 62, spin his victory as a vote against the old-boy network at City Hall, considering that he and two women - the other being Konnie Lukes - finished in the top three.

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It was vital, though, that the organisation handed out money openly, he said: "And not through a closed, old-boy network.

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Sir Derek also urged the recruitment of more directors among women and ethnic minorities to break up an old-boy network of white males nearing retirement age.

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We in the executive search profession are too willing to stay within our comfort zone: the old-boy network.

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Last night he denied any conflict of interest and Adam claimed Scottish football clubs were too bogged down by an old-boy network to appreciate fresh ideas.

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The old-boy network of the former nomenklatura is still strong.

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Paula Coughlin, is typically reported as a clear-cut example of what's wrong with the military regarding the expanding role of women: The old-boy network just doesn't get it and sanctions misogyny as a semi-official policy.