Definition

A person who leads a group, especially in activities that are not legal or are considered wrong.

Example

The police arrested the ringleader of the gang after a long investigation.

Conversation

Did you hear about the party last weekend?

Yeah, I heard the ringleader organized it all.

I can't believe they got so many people to show up.

Right? It was wild, and the ringleader definitely knew how to throw a good time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ringleader → It is formed from "ring" (from Old English "hring", meaning a circular band or circle) and "leader" (from Old English "lædere", meaning one who leads). The word "ringleader" refers to a person who leads a group, often in a conspiratorial or mischievous context, suggesting a central figure in a circle of participants.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'ring' as a circle of people and a 'leader' as the one who guides them — a ringleader is the person at the center, directing the group.

Visually Confused Words