Definition

Relating to or characteristic of secret plans made by a group to do something unlawful or harmful.

Example

He gave her a conspiratorial wink, as if they were sharing a secret.

Conversation

Did you notice how he gave that conspiratorial smile during the meeting?

Yeah, it was like he knew something we didn't.

Exactly! It made me wonder if there's more going on behind the scenes.

For sure, I can't help but feel there's a secret plan at play.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Conspiratorial → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "spirare" (meaning to breathe). The word refers to the act of breathing together, which metaphorically extends to secretive plotting or scheming together.

Memory Tip

Think of people 'together' ('con-') 'breathing' ('spirare') in a secretive manner — that's why conspiratorial relates to secret plots.

Visually Confused Words