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

Even though the British side believed Mr Storey masterminded the operation, influential Irish Americans were less willing to accept that republicans were behind it.

From BBC

Jho Low, a financier alleged to have masterminded the scheme, remains at large.

From The Wall Street Journal

Ross and Matt Duffer, the sibling masterminds behind Netflix’s “Stranger Things,” are closer to finding out if they’ve achieved that in the eyes of the show’s fans.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s always a treat when you step into the creative world of a mastermind, especially when it comes to the magic behind our favorite films.

From Los Angeles Times

He not only reported on the front-line fighting but also won exclusive, and controversial, interviews with then-President Saddam Hussein and future 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• organize