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.
Aimee Bock, the ringleader of the operation, was found guilty last March on multiple criminal counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery. Wcco Staff, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2026 One of the defendants, Benjamin Song, a 32-year-old former Marine Corps reservist who associates described to authorities as a cult-like ringleader who opposes the government on immigration enforcement and on other matters, shot Alvarado Police Department Lt. Emerson Clarridge updated February 17, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Feb. 2026 The Eras Tour ringleader has built an expansive intellectual property portfolio with 175 live trademarks. Bryan West, USA Today, 13 Feb. 2026 My parents got the school involved, and the ringleaders were hauled into the vice principal’s office. Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 1 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on ringleader

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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