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.
The cast stars young newcomers Rasmussen, Blunck and Kayo Martin as ringleader Jake. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 2 Jan. 2026 The ringleader of what authorities called the largest pandemic fraud case in the United States has been ordered to forfeit more than $5 million. Wcco Staff, CBS News, 31 Dec. 2025 The Minnesota fraud scheme’s ringleader is white, but dozens of Somali people have been convicted and faced additional charges. The Hill Staff, The Hill, 30 Dec. 2025 Another of the boys, Ben (Everett Blunck), struggles between his desire to help the outcast camper and his worries about incurring the wrath of the larger group, especially the ringleader Jake (Kayo Martin). Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 22 Dec. 2025 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 9 Jan. 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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