Cabal (noun)

1. A secret group or clique, especially one that is formed for the purpose of plotting or scheming.
2. A group of people united in some close design together, usually to promote their private views and interests in an injurious way to the public.

Origin:

From french cabale, from spanish cabala, from hebrew qabbālāh ("reception, tradition"), from qabbel ("to receiv.e")

Examples:

1. The cabal of businessmen were plotting to take over the company.
2. The cabal of politicians were working together to push their own agenda.
3. He was convinced that a cabal of powerful people were out to get him.
4. The cabal of insiders were working together to manipulate the market.
5. The cabal was a group of powerful people who had a hidden agenda.