cabal
4 synonyms for cabal, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small group secretly plotting together, especially in politics.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use cabal
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a secret cabal
a cabal of insiders
Carries a negative, conspiratorial tone.
Etymology
From French cabale, ultimately from Hebrew kabalah ("received tradition") — the same root as the mystical Kabbalah.
Full origin of cabal →Frequently asked questions
What does “cabal” mean?
The word “cabal” means a small group secretly plotting together, especially in politics. In plain terms, a secretive group scheming together, usually for political ends.
How do you pronounce “cabal”?
“Cabal” is pronounced kuh-BAHL (/kəˈbɑːl/ in IPA).
How do you use “cabal” in a sentence?
Here is “cabal” used in a sentence: “A cabal of senior officials pushed the policy through without debate.”
What part of speech is “cabal”?
“Cabal” is a noun.
Where does the word “cabal” come from?
The word “cabal” comes from French. From French cabale, ultimately from Hebrew kabalah ("received tradition") — the same root as the mystical Kabbalah.
