Meaning

(derogatory) A putative, secret organization of individuals gathered for a political purpose..

Definitions by Sense

1. (derogatory) A putative, secret organization of individuals gathered for a political purpose.
2. A secret plot.
3. An identifiable group within the tradition of Discordianism.
4. (intransitive) To engage in the activities of a cabal.

Example Sentences

The cabal is plotting to ruin the world.

Undaunted and implacable, prudent and active; no opposition of the French princes or nobles could withstand his vengeance, no cabals could escape his penetration.

But ’tis a civil thing, said I;—and as I generally act from the first impulse, and therefore seldom listen to these cabals, which serve no purpose, that I know of, but to encompass the heart with adamant—I turned instantly about to the lady.—

In the first place, it is to be remarked that, however small the republic may be, the representatives must be raised to a certain number, in order to guard against the cabals of a few; and that, however large it may be, they must be limited to a certain number, in order to guard against the confusion of a multitude.

With his active and intriguing temper, Francis would doubtless have taken an eager part in the court cabals and conspiracies which make the history of Charles the Second; […]

The cabal to destroy the building was foiled by federal agents.

Some episkoposes have a one-man cabal. Some work together. Some never do explain.

[W]e think it very unbecoming our Prudence, that the Determination ſhould be remitted to the Authors themſelves; when our Adversaries, by Briguing and Caballing, have cauſed so univerſal a Defection from us, that the greater Part of our Society has already deſerted to them, […]

Word Forms

• cabals
• cabaling
• caballing
• cabaled
• caballed

Synonyms for cabal

Related Words

When Should You Use Cabal?

Use cabal when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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