Definition

To secretly work together with others to do something dishonest or illegal.

Example

The two companies decided to collude to fix prices and eliminate competition.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about those companies that collude to fix prices?

Yeah, it's really shady how they operate behind the scenes.

I can't believe they would actually collude like that.

Right? It makes you wonder how often it happens without us knowing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Collude → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "ludere" (meaning to play). The word describes the act of playing together in a secretive or deceitful manner, often for a dishonest purpose.

Memory Tip

Think of people 'together' ('con-') 'playing' ('ludere') in a secretive way — that's why collude means to secretly cooperate for a dishonest purpose.

Visually Confused Words