'Ringleader' definitions:

Definition of 'ringleader'

From: WordNet
noun
A person who leads (especially in illicit activities)

Definition of 'Ringleader'

From: GCIDE
  • Ringleader \Ring"lead`er\, n.
  • 1. The leader of a circle of dancers; hence, the leader of a number of persons acting together; the leader of a herd of animals. [1913 Webster]
  • A primacy of order, such an one as the ringleader hath in a dance. --Barrow. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Opprobriously, a leader of a body of men engaged in the violation of law or in an illegal enterprise, as rioters, mutineers, or the like. [1913 Webster]
  • The ringleaders were apprehended, tried, fined, and imprisoned. --Macaulay. [1913 Webster]