Scheming group (5)
I believe the answer is:
cabal
'scheming group' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for cabal that I've seen before include "Secret group of plotters" , "Secret plot or the people engaged in it" , "Intriguing group" , "Camp" , "Intrigue, clique" .)