mafia

Meanings

• noun

  An organized crime syndicate, originating in the Sicilian Mafia in Southern Italy in the 19th century, and later spreading to other parts of the world. Its members typically operate as part of a hierarchical structure, engaging in illicit activities such as racketeering, drug trafficking, gambling, and extortion.

  - "The mafia has a long history of violence and corruption."
  - "The mafia's influence extended beyond Sicily to other parts of Italy and even to other countries."

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Rhymes

Words rhyming with mafia
afia , aria , fia , lia , mia , nia

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Variants

List of all variants of mafia that leads to same result
Mafia , Mafias , the Mafia

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Etymology

origin and the way in which meanings have changed throughout history.

The word 'mafia' comes from the Italian word 'mafia,' which is believed to have originated from the Sicilian word 'mafia,' meaning 'sicilian' or 'uncle,' and was used as a term of respect for an influential and powerful man.

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Trivia

Any details, considerations, events or pieces of information regarding the word

1. The mafia is estimated to have between 10,000 and 50,000 members worldwide.

2. The mafia's symbol is a hand with the index finger and thumb touching, known as the 'fist,' which represents solidarity and secrecy.

3. The mafia's code of conduct is known as 'The Omertà,' which means 'silence.' Members are expected to never betray each other or reveal any information about the organization to outsiders.

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Related Concepts

informations on related concepts or terms closely associated with the word. Discuss semantic fields or domains that the word belongs to

1. Mob: Mafia and mob are often used interchangeably to refer to organized crime syndicates. However, the term 'mob' is more general and can refer to any group of people who act together to commit illegal activities.

2. La Cosa Nostra: La Cosa Nostra, also known as Cosa Nostra or the Mafia, is a Sicilian criminal organization that is considered the prototype for modern mafia groups. It is the most famous and powerful mafia family, and is believed to have originated in the late 19th century.

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Culture

Any cultural, historical, or symbolic significance of the word. Explore how the word has been used in literature, art, music, or other forms of expression.

The mafia has been a significant cultural symbol in literature, art, and music, often portrayed as a mysterious and powerful force. In Italian culture, the mafia has been depicted in films such as 'The Godfather' and 'Goodfellas,' and in literature such as 'The Leopard' by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. The mafia has also been the subject of numerous songs and musical compositions.

How to Memorize "mafia"

1. visualize
   

   - Visualize a group of men in suits, huddled together in a dimly lit room, speaking in hushed tones. Imagine the power and intimidation that radiates from this group.

2. associate
   

   - Associate the word 'mafia' with the image of a powerful and secretive criminal organization.

3. mnemonics
   

   - Use the acronym 'M.A.F.I.A.' to remember the definition: 'M' for 'Mafia,' 'A' for 'An organized crime syndicate,' 'F' for 'From Sicily,' 'I' for 'Illicit activities,' and 'A' for 'Association'.

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