Connived: meaning, definitions and examples

secretly scheming

The term 'connived' refers to the act of secretly allowing something bad to occur or being complicit in dishonest or unethical behavior. When someone connives, they often do so with a degree of cunning or deceit, implying an understanding of the wrongness of their actions. This word is frequently associated with conspiratorial behavior and suggests a lack of integrity. In literature and everyday speech, it often conveys a sense of betrayal and manipulation.

collude, conspire, intrigue, plot, schemed

Examples of usage

• They connived to undermine the project.

• She connived with her friends to play a prank.

• The villains connived to steal the treasure.