Definitions:

1. Arrange by systematic planning and united effort. VERB
   • The court discovered that the conspirators had been machinating for months to overthrow the government.
2. Describes the secretive nature of plotting or conspiracy, where those involved are deliberately trying to manipulate events or people to achieve thier goals. NOUN
   • The rivals machinated in the shadows, each trying to outmaneuver the other for control of the company.
3. Refers to the act of planning or engaging in secretive, often underhanded, activities with the intent to achieve a specific outcome, typically one that is harmful or unethical. NOUN
   • The disgruntled employees began to machinate against their manage, hoping to get him removed from his position.

Synonyms:

• cabal
• collude
• complot
• connive
• conspire
• devise
• plan
• plot
• scheme