Entry Word: conspiracy

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a group involved in secret or criminal activities <members of the conspiracy recognized each other by a secret handshake> — see ring 1
2 a secret agreement or cooperation between two parties for an illegal or dishonest purpose <a conspiracy among the leading manufacturers to fix prices> — see collusion
3 a secret plan for accomplishing evil or unlawful ends <several generals were engaged in a conspiracy to overthrow the government> — see plot 1