Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for mastermind. Search instead for masterminded/2.
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.

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

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

Mohsin Naqvi said an Afghan national who is alleged to be the mastermind behind the attack was among those detained.

From BBC • Feb. 7, 2026

His reputation as a mastermind on the defense certainly precedes him, and at USC, that’s where he’ll be needed most.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 28, 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