ringleader
noun
ring·lead·er
ˈriŋ-ˌlē-dər 
: a leader of a ring of individuals engaged especially in improper or unlawful activities
Examples of ringleader in a Sentence
the ringleader of a gang of criminals
Recent Examples on the Web
At the time, she was allegedly thought of as the ringleader of the wives and defended his abuse.
—
Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026
When Illinois takes on UConn on Saturday in the opening semifinal of the Final Four in Indy, the Illini coach and ringleader will go head-to-head against Dan Hurley, a two-time national champion whose fiery reputation makes Underwood’s demeanor look almost passive in comparison.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026
One famous economist even took a turn as circus ringleader (more on that later).
—Bella Webb, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2026
Calyute, believed to be the ringleader, was also imprisoned for several weeks.
—Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ringleader
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Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026
When Illinois takes on UConn on Saturday in the opening semifinal of the Final Four in Indy, the Illini coach and ringleader will go head-to-head against Dan Hurley, a two-time national champion whose fiery reputation makes Underwood’s demeanor look almost passive in comparison.
—Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026
One famous economist even took a turn as circus ringleader (more on that later).
—Bella Webb, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2026
Calyute, believed to be the ringleader, was also imprisoned for several weeks.
—Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for ringleader
Cite this Entry
“Ringleader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ringleader. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
ringleader
noun
ring·lead·er
ˈriŋ-ˌlēd-ər
: a leader especially of a group of persons who cause trouble
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