Ringleader: meaning, definitions and examples

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ringleader

 

[ ˈrɪŋˌliːdər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

circus

The ringleader is the person who leads and directs the performances in a circus, often dressed in a flamboyant outfit and carrying a whip.

Synonyms

circus leader, master of ceremonies, ringmaster.

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Word Description / Examples
ringleader

This word is often used to describe someone who takes the lead in organizing a group, especially in a negative or criminal context.

  • The police arrested the ringleader of the gang
  • With the ringleader in custody, the illegal activities halted
ringmaster

This is the traditional term for the person who directs the performances in a circus. It is a more formal and specific term compared to 'circus leader'.

  • The ringmaster, dressed in a bright red coat, announced each act with flair
  • The circus wouldn't be the same without its charismatic ringmaster
circus leader

This term would usually refer to the person in charge of a circus. It's quite an informal term and may not be commonly used.

  • The circus leader organized all the performers and ensured the show ran smoothly
  • Every evening, the circus leader would gather everyone for a brief meeting
master of ceremonies

This phrase is used for the person who hosts or presents events, such as weddings, parties, or public gatherings.

  • The master of ceremonies introduced each speaker with great enthusiasm
  • At the awards ceremony, the master of ceremonies kept the audience entertained

Examples of usage

  • The ringleader cracked his whip, signaling the start of the circus show.
  • All eyes were on the ringleader as he orchestrated the acrobats' performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "ringleader" in other languages:

🇵🇹 líder do grupo

🇮🇳 सरगना

🇩🇪 Anführer

🇮🇩 pemimpin kelompok

🇺🇦 ватажок

🇵🇱 przywódca

🇯🇵 首謀者 (しゅぼうしゃ)

🇫🇷 chef de bande

🇪🇸 cabecilla

🇹🇷 çete lideri

🇰🇷 주모자

🇸🇦 زعيم العصابة

🇨🇿 vůdce skupiny

🇸🇰 vodca skupiny

🇨🇳 头目

🇸🇮 vodja skupine

🇮🇸 leiðtogi hópsins

🇰🇿 топ басшысы

🇬🇪 ბანდის ლიდერი

🇦🇿 dəstə başçısı

🇲🇽 cabecilla

Etymology

The term 'ringleader' originated in the circus world, where it refers to the person in charge of the ring or performance area. The word 'ring' in 'ringleader' comes from the circular area where circus performances take place. Over time, the term has been used more broadly to refer to a leader or organizer of a group, often with a slightly negative connotation.

See also: ring, ringing, ringmaster.