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

A young Dominic Cummings was the mastermind behind the victorious No campaign, trying out tactics and messages he would later use in the 2016 Brexit referendum.

From BBC

Lawrence Stroll has masterminded a series of developments at Aston Martin that underline his ambition for the team to become title contenders.

From BBC

Charles Manson was behind a series of murders that terrorized Southern California in the late 1960s, but the killings he masterminded with his famous "family" might not be the only executions he helped carry out.

From Salon

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

Manson died in 2017 while serving a commuted death sentence for masterminding an infamous spate of murders in Los Angeles in 1969.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• organize