plot, intrigue, machination, conspiracy, cabal mean a plan secretly devised to accomplish an evil or treacherous end. plot implies careful foresight in planning a complex scheme.

MACHINATION meaning: 1. a complicated and secret plan to get power or control or to gain an advantage: 2. a complicated…. Learn more.

machination (ˌmækɪˈneɪʃən; ˌmæʃ-) n 1. an intrigue, plot, or scheme 2. the act of devising plots or schemes

MACHINATION definition: an act or instance of machinating. See examples of machination used in a sentence.

There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun machination, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Dec 30, 2025 · machination (countable and uncountable, plural machinations) (chiefly in the plural) A clever scheme or artful plot, usually crafted for evil purposes. [from circa 1473][2] …

Definition of machination noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

2 senses: 1. an intrigue, plot, or scheme 2. the act of devising plots or schemes.... Click for more definitions.

A secret and often complex scheme or plot, typically one that is intended to achieve a nefarious or deceitful goal. "The machination involved a series of subtle manipulations and deceptions."

When a James Bond villain comes up with a plan to destroy the world, he doesn’t use a simple plan. No, he uses a machination — a complex plot that relies on numerous elements coming …