old-boy network


old-boy network

(ōld′boi′)n. 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]