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mafia Synonyms
Another word for mafia
Choosing another word for mafia depends on context, so the synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• noun (Context 1)
A hierarchical, secretive organized crime syndicate originating in Sicily and operating internationally (especially in Italy and the United States), or any similar national or regional criminal network that enforces its control through extortion, intimidation, and illicit enterprise.
Usage Example
"Federal prosecutors spent years investigating how the local mob infiltrated the city's waste management contracts."
Strongest
mob
Strong
syndicate
underworld
cartel
• noun (Context 2)
An exclusive, tightly knit clique or group of insiders perceived as exercising clannish, disproportionate, or secretive influence within a particular profession, industry, or institution.
Usage Example
"Critics complained that a powerful literary cabal controlled which debut novels received major award nominations."
Strong
cabal
clique
coterie
inner circle
Weak
junta
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Mafia. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/mafia