Cahoot: meaning, definitions and examples

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cahoot

 

[ kəˈhuːt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

conspiracy, collaboration

Cahoot refers to a state of partnership or collaboration, often with a suspicious or secretive undertone. It is typically used in the phrase 'in cahoots,' implying an illicit or deceptive alliance between parties.

Synonyms

collusion, conspiracy, partnership.

Examples of usage

  • The two companies were in cahoots to manipulate the market.
  • They were found to be in cahoots with the criminals.
  • He suspected that she was in cahoots with his competitor.

Translations

Translations of the word "cahoot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conluio

🇮🇳 साज़िश

🇩🇪 Verschwörung

🇮🇩 komplot

🇺🇦 змови

🇵🇱 spisek

🇯🇵 共謀する

🇫🇷 complot

🇪🇸 conspiración

🇹🇷 komploluk

🇰🇷 음모

🇸🇦 مؤامرة

🇨🇿 spiknutí

🇸🇰 sprisahanie

🇨🇳 阴谋

🇸🇮 zarota

🇮🇸 samsæri

🇰🇿 қастандық

🇬🇪 საზღვარი

🇦🇿 komplot

🇲🇽 conspiración

Etymology

The term 'cahoot' is believed to have originated in American English in the early 19th century, likely deriving from the French word 'cahute,' meaning 'a small hut or cabin.' This suggests a setting of secretive gatherings or conspiratorial meetings. The phrase 'in cahoots' grew in popularity during the mid-19th century, becoming synonymous with dubious or clandestine cooperation. Initially, it had neutral connotations, but over time, it became associated with illicit schemes and secretive alliances as the cultural connotations surrounding secrecy and partnership evolved. The phrase was often used in the context of crime and deception, cementing its position in informal speech patterns in various English dialects.