ringleader

noun

ring·​lead·​er ˈriŋ-ˌlē-dər How to pronounce ringleader (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez, 31, of Omaha, Nebraska, who's seen smiling in his mugshot released by officials, was identified by prosecutors as the alleged ringleader of the group. Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2026 Prosecutors said the ringleader was recruited online for a plot masterminded by Russia’s intelligence services. ABC News, 16 June 2026 The ringleader is Virgil van Dijk, one of the best defenders of his generation with Liverpool, who has captained the Oranje for a national record 72 appearances and represented the Dutch national team for a decade. Andrew Greif, NBC news, 11 June 2026 Since then, prosecutors admitted in court filings that alleged ringleader Jimmy Gerodemos, not Ibrahim, left two threatening voicemails for Victim 1’s daughter. Meredith Colias-Pete, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ringleader

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1503, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ringleader was circa 1503

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Cite this Entry

“Ringleader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ringleader. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

ringleader

noun
ring·​lead·​er ˈriŋ-ˌlēd-ər How to pronounce ringleader (audio)
: a leader especially of a group of persons who cause trouble

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