Ringleaders

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A person who leads or organizes a group, often in rebellious or unlawful activities
2. An individual who exerts significant influence over a collective, especially in a disruptive context
3. Someone who is at the forefront of a gathering, particularly when it involves orchestrating actions that challenge authority

Etymology: "Ringleaders" is the plural of "ringleader," a compound of "ring" and "leader." The noun is formed in the most transparent way possible: a "leader" is one who leads, and "ring" here refers to a group of people acting together, as in a band or gang of conspirators. The ringleader is therefore the person at the head of such a group, the one who sets it in motion. The plural simply applies to a number of such people, typically those identified as the instigators of a riot, strike, mutiny or other rebellion. Its usage is concentrated in that context, which is why the word is most often found in reports of uprisings and trials, where authorities sought to single out the individuals they held responsible.

Synonyms: leaders, chiefs, captains