mastermind

[ mas-ter-mahynd, mah-ster- ]

verb (used with object)

1. to plan and direct (a usually complex project or activity), especially skillfully:

   Two colonels had masterminded the revolt.

noun

1. a person who originates or is primarily responsible for the execution of a particular idea, project, or the like:

   the masterminds of company policy.

mastermind

/ ˈmɑːstəˌmaɪnd /

verb

1. tr to plan and direct (a complex undertaking)

   he masterminded the robbery

noun

1. a person of great intelligence or executive talent, esp one who directs an undertaking

Word History and Origins

Origin of mastermind¹

First recorded in 1710–20; master + mind

Example Sentences

Jones was the mastermind behind South Africa’s ‘blitz’ defence, with tacklers rushing up in defence, attempting to shut down opponents’ time and space.

From BBC

Zuckerman maintains that Tanton was not the mastermind behind the Sierra Club effort.

From Salon

As well as Haniyeh’s death in July, in October Israel killed Yahya Sinwar in Gaza - he was the mastermind behind the 7 October Hamas attack on southern Israel.

From BBC

“Even if the whole thing was faked, Jiang Ping was not the mastermind behind it,” another wrote on Weibo.

From BBC

Griffiths replied: "You’re worth it my lovely criminal mastermind."

From BBC

Related Words

• organize