mastermind

American  

[mas-ter-mahynd, mah-ster-] / ˈmæs tərˌmaɪnd, ˈmɑ stər- /

verb (used with object)

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

   Two colonels had masterminded the revolt.

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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 British  

/ ˈmɑːstəˌmaɪnd /

verb

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

   he masterminded the robbery

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noun

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

Etymology

Origin of mastermind

First recorded in 1710–20; master + mind

Example Sentences

Cook was the mastermind of the strategy that made China the primary manufacturing base for Apple devices, with the vast majority of iPhones assembled by contractor Foxconn and other suppliers in Chinese factories.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

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

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

That’s smart, but he’ll also have to dial back Mr. Miller, who is the mastermind of the mass deportation strategy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 1, 2026

My relationship with my mom was like the relationship between a cop and a criminal in the movies—the relentless detective and the devious mastermind she’s determined to catch.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah

Related Words

• organize