Kingpin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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kingpin
[ˈkɪŋˌpɪn ]
Definitions
crime
A powerful or influential person within a particular sphere, especially in the criminal underworld.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kingpin |
Reiterating the same as above because of duplication. It's used for a major figure in a significant activity or organization, frequently with negative associations.
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| leader |
Used to describe someone who guides or directs a group. It’s a positive and broad term applicable in various situations, from communities to organizations.
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| boss |
Commonly used to refer to someone who is in charge or leads a group of people in a workplace. It’s straightforward and neutral.
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| bigwig |
Used in a more informal context to describe an important person, often in business or politics. It’s slightly humorous or casual.
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| tycoon |
Used to refer to a wealthy and powerful person, particularly in business. It implies success, wealth, and influence.
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Examples of usage
- The kingpin of the drug cartel was finally arrested by the authorities.
- She was known as the kingpin of the illegal gambling ring in the city.
bowling
The pin at the center of a group of ten pins in bowling, which is the object of the bowler's aim.
Synonyms
center pin, head pin.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kingpin |
Used to describe a central or most important element in a system, organization, or operation. Often associated with leadership or crucial roles in various fields. When used in a negative context, it can refer to a leader of a criminal organization.
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| center pin |
Typically used in mechanical or technical settings to describe the central supporting element of a structure or machine.
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| head pin |
Mostly used in bowling to refer to the front and foremost pin in the triangular pin setup. It can also colloquially refer to someone in charge or in a leading position within a team or group.
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Examples of usage
- He managed to hit the kingpin and get a strike in the final frame.
- The kingpin wobbled but didn't fall down, leaving him with a difficult spare.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In modern cinema, 'kingpin' often refers to a character who has significant control or power, such as in crime dramas.
- The character Wilson Fisk, known as 'Kingpin' in Marvel comics, embodies the archetype of a powerful and influential antagonist.
- The term has appeared in various TV shows, particularly in crime or mafia series, denoting a central figure in illegal activities.
Psychology
- Individuals labeled as kingpins often exhibit traits like charisma and decisiveness, making them influential leaders.
- The concept of a kingpin in social groups reflects the dynamics of power and authority, where one person often holds sway over others.
- Studies in social behavior suggest that group cohesion often revolves around central figures who fulfill roles that others depend on.
Gaming
- In competitive games like bowling, knocking down the kingpin can lead to higher scores and victory, reflecting its pivotal role.
- The term has also been adopted in gaming contexts, where a 'kingpin' might refer to a character or player with significant control over the game's outcome.
- In strategy games, having a 'kingpin' often indicates a player's ability to influence the game's direction and achieve objectives.
Origin of 'kingpin'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'kingpin' originated in the early 19th century, initially describing a key pin in bowling.
- By the late 20th century, it evolved to refer to a leader or major figure in organized crime or illicit enterprises.
- The use of 'pin' in 'kingpin' suggests something central or crucial, reinforcing its importance in a group.
The term 'kingpin' originated in the 17th century, where 'king' referred to a leader or monarch, and 'pin' referred to a peg or nail. Over time, it evolved to describe a powerful or influential person, particularly in criminal or illicit activities.