conspiracy
/kənˈspɪrəsi
/noun (plural conspiracies)
1A secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful: a conspiracy to destroy the government...
- The tacit conspiracy is the cause; the secret conspiracies are the symptoms.
- Where there were kings, queens, palaces there ought to be intrigues, conspiracies and secret tunnels.
- If the uncovered ‘secrets’ involve grand conspiracies, so much the better.
Synonyms
plot, scheme, stratagem, plan, machination, cabal;
deception, ploy, trick, ruse, dodge, subterfuge, sharp practice
informal frame-up, fit-up, racket, put-up job
rare complot, covin
1.1 [mass noun] The action of plotting or conspiring: they were cleared of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice...
- She is serving three-and-a-half years in prison for conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
- Tamper with a witness and see how you would go on a charge of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
- The second man is also being held on suspicion of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
Synonyms
plotting, collusion, intrigue, connivance, machination, collaboration;
treason
Phrases
a conspiracy of silence
Origin
Late Middle English: from Anglo-Norman French conspiracie, alteration of Old French conspiration, based on Latin conspirare 'agree, plot' (see conspire).