conspire
UK: kənˈspaɪə | US: kənˈspaɪər
vi. to secretly plan with others to do something unlawful or harmful
vi. (of events) to seem to work together toward a result
The word "conspire" originates from Latin conspirare, combining con- (together) and spirare (to breathe). The literal sense was "to breathe together," reflecting unity or harmony, but it evolved metaphorically to mean "to plot secretly" as if participants were whispering in unison. This shift highlights how shared breath (or speech) could imply covert collaboration.
The rebels conspired to overthrow the government.
Events conspired to ruin their carefully laid plans.
He accused his rivals of conspiring against him.
Bad weather and delays conspired to cancel the flight.
They conspired in secret, unaware they were being watched.