ˈmɑːfiə

Definitions

1. noun

A secret society or organization of people, especially in Italy, who engage in a variety of illegal activities.

“The police were investigating a local mafia that had been involved in multiple crimes.”

2. noun

A group of people who work together to achieve a particular goal, especially in business or politics.

“The new company was accused of being a mafia that used underhanded tactics to gain an advantage.”

3. verb

To engage in the activities of a secret society or organization, especially in a way that is secretive or illegal.

“Some people accused the politician of mafiaing with local business leaders to get votes.”