Ma|fi|a

ma|fi|a or maf|fi|a «MAH fee ah», noun.

the spirit of popular hostility to the law, manifesting itself frequently in criminal acts.

╂[< Italian mafia]

Ma|fi|a or Maf|fi|a «MAH fee ah», noun.

1. a secret organization of criminals supposed to control underworld activities in various parts of the world.

2. a secret Sicilian society hostile to the law and practicing terrorism.

3. Also, mafia. any secret society or exclusive set, circle or clique: »

the Diplomatic Mafia. The composers' Mafia, with its dedication to atonality... (New Yorker).