conspiracy
UK: kənˈspɪrəsi | US: kənˈspɪrəsi
n. a secret plan by a group to do something unlawful or harmful
n. the action of plotting or conspiring
conspiracy = con<together> + spir<breathe> + acy<noun suffix>
- con<together>: From Latin con-, meaning "together" or "with."
- spir<breathe>: From Latin spirare, meaning "to breathe." In metaphorical use, it implied shared intent or secret agreement (as if whispering together).
- acy<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns denoting a state or quality (e.g., democracy, accuracy).
Etymology Origin:
The word conspiracy traces back to Latin conspirare ("to breathe together," i.e., to plot secretly). The idea of shared breath metaphorically evolved into shared intentions, especially clandestine ones. By the 14th century, it entered English via Old French conspiracie, solidifying its modern meaning of a covert unlawful plan.
The conspiracy to overthrow the government was uncovered by intelligence agents.
Historians debate whether the assassination was a lone act or part of a larger conspiracy.
She accused her colleagues of a conspiracy to sabotage her career.
The novel revolves around a conspiracy involving corporate espionage.
Legal penalties for conspiracy can be severe, even if the plan is never executed.