conspiracy

con-spir-a-cy · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful.

  2. 2.

    The action of plotting or conspiring.

Forms

plural: conspiracies

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    conspiracy theory — a belief that events are secretly manipulated by powerful groups
  • •
    conspiracy of silence — an agreement to keep something secret
  • •
    criminal conspiracy — a legal charge for planning illegal activity

Related words

See also: conspire, plot, scheme
Synonyms: collusion, intrigue, plot, scheme

Etymology

From Latin "conspirare" meaning to agree, unite, or plot, from "com-" (together) and "spirare" (to breathe). The original sense was of breathing together or being in harmony.