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.
In September 2024, 16-year-old Aiden Waters was charged with killing YBC ringleader and rapper Abdul Vicks in North Philadelphia. Tom Dougherty, CBS News, 25 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 24, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Feb. 2026 During the capture, the CJNG ringleader became wounded and died en route to Mexico City, the Defense Department said. Bonny Chu , Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 22 Feb. 2026 The Eras Tour ringleader has built an expansive intellectual property portfolio with 175 live trademarks. Bryan West, USA Today, 13 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 4 Mar. 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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