1. A small group of people who secretly plot to gain power or influence
   "The cabal controlled affairs from behind the scenes";
   - junto, camarilla
    
2. A plot to carry out some harmful or illegal act (especially a political plot)
   "A secret cabal of business leaders attempted to influence the election";
   - conspiracy

1. Engage in plotting or enter into a conspiracy, swear together
   "The disgruntled employees caballed to overthrow the management";
   - conspire, complot [archaic], machinate

Derived forms: caballing, caballed, cabals

Type of: camp, clique, coterie, game [informal], ingroup, inner circle, pack, plot, secret plan

Encyclopedia: Cabal