mastermind

1 of 2

noun

mas·​ter·​mind ˈma-stər-ˌmīnd How to pronounce mastermind (audio)
ˌmas-tər-ˈ
Synonyms of mastermind
: a person who supplies the directing or creative intelligence for a project

mastermind

2 of 2

verb

masterminded; masterminding; masterminds

transitive verb

: to be the mastermind of

Synonyms of mastermind

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Noun

Verb

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Examples of mastermind in a Sentence

Noun the mastermind behind the terrorist plot the real mastermind behind the embezzlement scheme Verb They masterminded a unique solution to the problem. He masterminded the bank robbery.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
Eventually, Wendy redirects the interrogation back to Ashley, who is the ultimate mastermind behind everyone’s frustrations at the table. — Shamira Ibrahim, Vulture, 26 Oct. 2026 The Wu-Tang Clan's mastermind has carved out a second career directing mid-level action flicks, and last year's One Spoon of Chocolate is a solid if silly movie. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 23 Oct. 2026
Verb
This year’s lingerie spectacular was no different, with Dame Pat McGrath masterminding the baby winged eyeliner and pink cheeks, while Guido Palau executed the blowouts. — Violet Hayward, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2026 British prosecutors said it was masterminded by Russia’s intelligence services. — ABC News, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mastermind

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1872, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mastermind was in 1872

Rhymes for mastermind

See All Rhymes for mastermind

Browse Nearby Words

master mechanic
mastermind
master of arts
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Cite this Entry

“Mastermind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastermind. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

mastermind

noun
mas·​ter·​mind
ˈmas-tər-ˌmīnd, 
ˌmas-tər-ˈmīnd
: a person who invents or directs a project
mastermind verb
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