# mafia

/ˈmɑfiə/ (US) · /mˈæfiɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mafia
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a large, organized group of criminals that often controls illegal businesses. It is most famous for its history in Italy and the United States.

For teachers: a hierarchical criminal organization, typically of Italian origin, involved in racketeering and other illegal activities. When used with a lowercase 'm', it can describe any closed group that exerts secret influence in a specific field.

## Examples

- The police spent years investigating the local Mafia.
- The documentary explores how the Mafia gained control over the city's construction industry during the mid-twentieth century.

## Usage notes

- Capitalised when referring to the specific Italian-American or Sicilian organization; often takes a singular verb but can take a plural verb in British English.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.