Mastermind Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🧠

Add to dictionary

mastermind

[ˈmastərˌmīnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

game

A person who has exceptional skill or ability in a particular area, especially in devising strategies or solving complex problems.

Synonyms

expert, genius, maestro, virtuoso.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mastermind	This term is best used when referring to someone who is the key planner or the person behind a complex scheme or project. It often carries a connotation of ingenuity and strategic thinking. However, it can sometimes have a negative connotation if the scheme is illegal or unethical. The mastermind behind the successful merger was praised at the company's annual meeting. The police arrested the mastermind of the heist after months of investigation.
genius	This word refers to someone who has exceptional intellectual or creative power, often in a specific area. It has a very positive connotation and is used to highlight extraordinary talent or intelligence. Albert Einstein is widely regarded as a genius for his contributions to physics. Her genius in painting became evident at a very young age.
expert	Use this term when describing someone who has a high level of skill or knowledge in a particular area. It is neutral and can be applied across various fields and disciplines. She is an expert in cybersecurity and often speaks at international conferences. We need an expert to solve this complicated issue with the software.
virtuoso	This word is used to describe someone who has exceptional technical skill in a particular activity, especially in the arts. It often carries a sense of admiration for the person's skill and dedication. The young violinist is considered a virtuoso, mesmerizing audiences with her performances. He is a virtuoso on the piano, able to play the most complex pieces effortlessly.
maestro	This term is most commonly used in the context of music, to refer to a distinguished conductor or composer. It denotes high respect and is often reserved for those with exceptional skills and achievements in music. The audience gave a standing ovation to the maestro after the outstanding performance. As a maestro, her influence on classical music is unparalleled.

Examples of usage

He was considered a mastermind in the field of artificial intelligence.
The criminal mastermind had planned the heist down to the smallest detail.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

crime

A person who plans and orchestrates a criminal operation, often with multiple layers of complexity.

Synonyms

architect, brains, ringleader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mastermind	As mentioned earlier, this term often portrays someone with superior intellect and strategic planning abilities, often used for both positive and negative connotations. She masterminded the entire philanthropic campaign to raise funds for the school The infamous criminal masterminded several bank robberies
ringleader	Typically used in a negative context to refer to the person who leads or incites a group to engage in unlawful or disruptive activities. The police identified him as the ringleader of the riot The teacher quickly realized who the ringleader of the classroom prank was
architect	Best used in the context of someone who designs buildings or structures, or figuratively, someone who constructs plans or structures in any field. She is the lead architect designing the new museum As the architect of the new marketing strategy, he was praised for his innovative ideas
brains	Popular in informal speech to refer to the person who is the intellectual force or the most intelligent member of a group, often implying cleverness. She's the brains behind the operation In the group project, Tom was clearly the brains, while others handled the execution

Examples of usage

The police were on the hunt for the mastermind behind the drug trafficking ring.
The mastermind behind the embezzlement scheme was finally caught.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Research shows that people with strong planning abilities often excel in leadership roles due to their strategic thinking.
Cognitive studies indicate that effective planners can anticipate challenges and adapt plans, leading to more successful outcomes.

Pop Culture

In movies and books, mastermind characters often exhibit traits such as cunning intelligence and exceptional problem-solving skills.
A popular board game, 'Mastermind,' challenges players to use logic and deduction skills, reinforcing the concept of strategic thinking.

History

Throughout history, figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Nikola Tesla have been considered masterminds due to their innovative ideas and leadership in science and art.
The concept of 'mastermind groups' emerged in the early 20th century, where individuals collaborated to share ideas and resources for greater success.

Literature

In classic literature, characters like Sherlock Holmes are often depicted as masterminds for their exceptional ability to solve complex mysteries.
Contemporary novels frequently feature mastermind villains who outsmart heroes, showcasing the duality of intelligence and morality.

Origin of 'mastermind'

Main points about word origin

The term 'mastermind' combines 'master,' meaning someone with great skill, and 'mind,' which refers to intelligence or thought.
The word gained popularity in the English language around the 19th century, reflecting the rise of organized planning in various fields.

The term 'mastermind' originated in the late 19th century, combining 'master' (meaning a skilled or knowledgeable person) and 'mind' (referring to the intellect or mental ability). Initially used in a positive context to describe someone with exceptional abilities, it later evolved to also refer to individuals orchestrating complex criminal activities.