n. [ L. nepus, nepotus, nephew: cf. F. népotisme. See Nephew. ] Undue attachment to relations; favoritism shown to members of one's family; bestowal of patronage in consideration of relationship, rather than of merit or of legal claim. [ 1913 Webster ]

From nepotism Alexander V. was safe; for he was without kindred or relatives. But there was another perhaps more fatal nepotism, which turned the tide of popularity against him -- the nepotism of his order. Milman. [ 1913 Webster ]