What Is A Cabal?

Wondrous Words Wednesday

When reading a review of the latest BBC Sherlock episode, I came across a new word: cabal. I’m sure Sherlock would know this word; I’ve gotta catch up!

If you like learning new words too, visit Kathy’s Wondrous Words Wednesday meme at Bermuda Onion. Bloggers share new and interesting words here; feel free to add your own post.

SherlockHere’s some context for cabal from the review:

It turns out the real culprit isn’t those meddling kids but instead a cabal with aims sympathetic to modern tastes.

Cabal \kǝ-’bal\ noun from French cabale, cabala meaning intrigue

  • A number of persons secretly united to bring about an overturn or usurpation, especially in public affairs
  • The intrigues of such a group
  • Synonym: plot
  • Verb: to unite into a cabal

Word Nerd Workout

Use cabal in a sentence.  Here’s mine:

The reporter uncovered a cabal in the town council plotting to shift funds toward the development of a new shopping center that would benefit a local, politically connected businessman.

Gotta love small town politics.  😉

Thanks for getting nerdy with me today!

Julia

 

 

 

 

 

 

Julia Tomiak
I believe in the power of words to improve our lives, and I help people find interesting words to read. Member of SCBWI.

14 Comments

  1. Your sentence sounds like you live in my suburb! I love Sherlock. I’ve seen most episodes more than once, even though I rarely do that with other shows. It’s so smart that it takes me more than once to understand it!

  2. I like this word though I had never heard it before that I can remember.

    “I fear that there is a cabal forming in Washington DC to turn us against each other.”

    Thanks for the new word, Julia!

    1. Haha! Jess, we have the same wicked cabals happening in our house… Good word, Julia. I don’t think I’ve ever heard it. I’m a little unclear on how to pronounce it – “Keh-ball” or Kah-ball?” I have not seen Sherlock but everyone keeps telling me it’s a MUST-SEE!

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