thought leader

American  

[thawt lee-der] / ˈθɔt ˌli dər /

noun

1. a person or organization that is a recognized authority in a particular field and whose innovative ideas influence and guide others.

   He is a thought leader in education reform and his insights represent the latest thinking on the topic.

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Other Word Forms

• thought leadership
  noun

Etymology

Origin of thought leader

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

“Every detail has been thoughtfully curated with exceptional finishes and a clean, modern aesthetic that embodies sophisticated Malibu living,” the listing goes on.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

Every detail is thoughtfully curated for one hell of an experience you won’t forget.

From Salon • Sep. 29, 2025

Rose’s thoughtfully curated film categories change from month to month, including his staff picks.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2025

"In response to these challenges, we have made the difficult yet necessary decision to introduce a thoughtfully curated selection of high-quality, responsibly sourced meat and dairy options to our menu."

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2024

Since the closure of Signature’s thoughtfully curated lobby bookstore — a casualty of the coronavirus pandemic — no production there has made me miss it as powerfully as this one.

From New York Times • Feb. 28, 2023