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

In 1895, South Carolina held a constitutional convention, spearheaded by the aforementioned Hamburg massacre ringleader Tillman, and adopted a new constitution that effectively ended the Black vote in the state. — Jacob Ware, The Conversation, 31 July 2026

The ringleader, Aimee Bock, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for orchestrating a scheme which diverted roughly $250 million of government funds meant to feed hungry children. — Wcco Staff, CBS News, 31 July 2026

Eager as the women are to nab a serial killer, going after the network’s Epstein-like billionaire ringleader proves even more tempting. — Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 30 July 2026

But the indictment unsealed Thursday adds several new charges against Joseph Henrichsen, who investigators have painted as the ringleader. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 30 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1503, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ringleader

• cheerleader
• proofreader
• bleeder
• breeder
• feeder
• leader
• lieder
• meader
• pleader
• reader
• reeder
• seeder

Kids Definition

ringleader

noun

ring·​lead·​er ˈriŋ-ˌlēd-ər 

: a leader especially of a group of persons who cause trouble