Startup, n. A social group characterized by excessive devotion to a charismatic authoritarian leader, a strong shared vision, and a distinct identity with unique language and symbols. Exerts strong control over its members' lives, often using psychological manipulation to create dedication, compliance, and isolation from external influences.
"You Should Run Your Startup Like a Cult", by Peter Thiel (https://www.wired.com/2014/09/run-startup-like-cult-heres/) (https://archive.is/h7iZl) (2014)