ringleader \ˈ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷\noun Etymology:ring (I)(group) + leader : a leader of a group of individuals engaged especially in violation of law or an improper enterprise < one of the ringleaders of the abortive revolution — Ethel Drus > < vengeful murder of the mutiny's bloodthirsty ringleader — F.R.Dulles >