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Definitions

mastermind

[mas-ter-mahynd, mah-ster-] / ˈmæs tərˌmaɪnd, ˈmɑ stər- /
VERB
plan and direct
Synonyms
STRONGEST
STRONG
WEAK


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They portray him as the mastermind of a scheme of illicit enrichment.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers honored legendary coach Pat Riley, mastermind of the team's 1980s "Showtime" era, with a statue outside Crypto.com Arena on Sunday.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Authorities say several suspects, including the alleged mastermind, remain under active investigation, with further arrests expected.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Both men are indebted to a mastermind who organizes such jobs—Money, played by Nick Nolte.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

A criminal mastermind—and it had to be a criminal mastermind, because who else could steal a painting that couldn’t be stolen?

From "The Mona Lisa Vanishes" by Nicholas Day