Dismantled esoteric cabals (8)

I believe the answer is:

coteries

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'cabals' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'dismantled esoteric' is the wordplay.
'dismantled' indicates an anagram.
'esoteric' with letters rearranged gives 'COTERIES'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for coteries that I've seen before include "Exclusive circles, cliques" , "Exclusive groups" , "'Inner circles, cliques (8)'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.