WERE CAHOOTS Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "were cahoots" is an informal expression often used in colloquial speech to describe a close or collusive association between two or more individuals or groups in carrying out some joint activity, usually with a sense of secrecy or mischief. It implies a complicit partnership or collaboration that might involve plotting, planning, or working together towards a shared objective, often involving illicit or dishonest actions.
The term "cahoots" itself refers to an alliance, conspiracy, or partnership formed for dubious purposes or shared interests. When combined with "were" in the expression "were cahoots," it suggests the existence of such an association in the past. This phrase is commonly used to describe situations where individuals or entities have cooperatively engaged in some kind of misdeed or dubious undertaking.
For instance, one might say, "Those two politicians were in cahoots to manipulate the election results." Here, the phrase implies that the politicians collaborated secretly and dishonestly to achieve their shared goal of manipulating election outcomes.
Overall, "were cahoots" denotes a previous collaboration or partnership, often characterized by dubious intent or activities, emphasizing the clandestine or conspiratorial nature of the association.
Common Misspellings for WERE CAHOOTS
Etymology of WERE CAHOOTS
The phrase "were cahoots" is a colloquial expression that means being in a secret partnership or collusion with someone, often with a negative connotation. This phrase has an interesting etymology as it combines two separate terms: "were" and "cahoots".
The word "cahoots" used in this context comes from the early 19th century American English. Its origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have been derived from the French word "cohorte", which meant a company or group of people. Over time, this term evolved and took on the meaning of a secret partnership or collusion.
The word "were" in this phrase is related to the verb "to be" in its past tense form. In old English, the past indicative plural form of "be" was "we (or were)".
