Home Dictionary Mmafia

mafia

mafia

Noun

pl: mafias

This term carries a heavy connotation of secrecy, loyalty, and intimidation. While it originally referred to specific Sicilian criminal organizations, it now evokes a general image of an impenetrable inner circle that operates outside the law or standard ethical boundaries to maintain power.

When used in a non-criminal sense, such as in professional or academic circles, the word is typically used pejoratively. It suggests a claustrophobic environment where nepotism and gatekeeping prevent outsiders from succeeding, transforming a professional network into a restrictive oligarchy.

Meanings

Nounmafia

An organized crime syndicate, typically one based on a secret society with a strict hierarchy and a code of silence.

The police are attempting to dismantle the local mafia.

Nounmafia

A group of people who are tightly knit and exert a disproportionate amount of influence or control over a particular field or activity.

The academic mafia ensures that only their preferred candidates get tenure.

Examples

The detective spent years trying to infiltrate the Sicilian mafia.

Detective

He was warned that crossing the mafia would lead to a violent end.

Detective

The mafia operated a complex network of shell companies to hide their money.

History

I wonder if the mafia still controls the docks in this city.

The family was deeply embedded in the mafia hierarchy for generations.

History

It is almost impossible to get a promotion here if you are not part of the office mafia.

Office

The tech mafia in Silicon Valley tends to fund its own people.

Business

They run the industry like a small mafia where only a few people make all the decisions.

Business

Who is actually running this project, the manager or the academic mafia behind the scenes?

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error