What term refers to a group of people who exclude others from their circle?

The term that best describes a group of people who exclude others from their circle is cliques. Cliques are typically characterized by a closed group of friends or peers who share similar interests, values, or social status, and they often maintain boundaries that can make it difficult for outsiders to join their group. This exclusivity is a defining feature of cliques, differentiating them from more inclusive social groups where members are open to integrating new individuals.

In contrast, friendship generally refers to a mutual bond between individuals that does not inherently include the aspect of exclusion. A community encompasses a broader group of individuals who share common interests or goals, and it often promotes inclusion and cooperation rather than exclusivity. Meanwhile, a tribe may evoke a sense of shared identity and belonging but does not necessarily imply exclusion of others in the same way as cliques do. Therefore, cliques specifically encapsulate the idea of exclusivity in social circles.