n.
1.a clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue
2.a plot to carry out some harmful or illegal act (especially a political plot) cabal v.
1.engage in plotting or enter into a conspiracy, swear together
Idiom of the Day
screw up one's courage
to build up one's courage for something
I screwed up my courage and asked my supervisor to transfer me to a different department.