noun
ringleader
RIHNG-lee-duhr
Ringleader (noun) means the person who leads or organizes a group, especially one doing something disruptive or illegal. Example: “Police arrested the ringleader of the smuggling operation.”
noun
1
The person who leads or organizes a group, especially one doing something disruptive or illegal.
"Police arrested the ringleader of the smuggling operation."
"The teacher identified him as the ringleader of the classroom prank."
How to use ringleader
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe main organizer behind a group's (usually troublesome) actions.
Common pairings
ringleader of a gang
suspected ringleader
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Word forms
- Plural
- ringleaders
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Police arrested the _____ of the smuggling operation.
Etymology
From "ring" (a circle of people) plus "leader" — originally the leader at the center of a circle.
Rhymes for ringleader
See all rhymes for ringleader →Frequently asked questions
What does “ringleader” mean?
The word “ringleader” means the person who leads or organizes a group, especially one doing something disruptive or illegal. In plain terms, the main organizer behind a group's (usually troublesome) actions.
How do you pronounce “ringleader”?
“Ringleader” is pronounced RIHNG-lee-duhr (/ˈɹɪŋˌliːdəɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ringleader” in a sentence?
Here is “ringleader” used in a sentence: “Police arrested the ringleader of the smuggling operation.”
What part of speech is “ringleader”?
“Ringleader” is a noun.
