mastermind

1 of 2

noun

mas·​ter·​mind ˈma-stər-ˌmīnd How to pronounce mastermind (audio)
ˌmas-tər-ˈ
: a person who supplies the directing or creative intelligence for a project

mastermind

2 of 2

verb

masterminded; masterminding; masterminds

transitive verb

: to be the mastermind of

Examples of mastermind in a Sentence

Noun the mastermind behind the terrorist plot the real mastermind behind the embezzlement scheme Verb They masterminded a unique solution to the problem. He masterminded the bank robbery.
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.
Noun
Peer groups, mastermind circles and business communities can provide a transformative space to exchange ideas and problem-solve. Hao Lam, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 Taubert is also extending her reach beyond the Latin market with collaborations with the Jonas Brothers’ Joe Jonas and pop mastermind Max Martin. Lucas Villa, Rolling Stone, 6 May 2025
Verb
This isn’t a hotel, but instead, a collection of five properties spread across the city that have been masterminded by the company’s inimitable cofounder and creative director, Hana Tsukamoto. Christina Liao, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025 Granddaughter of Adele Fendi, who founded the family business with a leather goods and luggage shop in Rome in 1925, Venturini Fendi is perhaps best known as the woman who in 1997 masterminded the iconic Baguette bag, and as the designer of Fendi menswear since 2000. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 28 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mastermind

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1872, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mastermind was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Mastermind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastermind. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

mastermind

noun
mas·​ter·​mind
ˈmas-tər-ˌmīnd,
ˌmas-tər-ˈmīnd
: a person who invents or directs a project
mastermind verb

More from Merriam-Webster on mastermind

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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