Mastermind
/ˈmɑːstərmaɪnd/
Definitions
2 meaningsA person with a high level of intelligence, skill, and planning ability; especially, the person who conceives and directs a complex project or enterprise.
/ˈmɑːstərmaɪnd/
A person with an outstanding intellect
She was the mastermind behind the innovative new product.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's super smart and good at planning things, like a boss who figures out the best way to make something happen, whether it's a successful business or a secret plan.
👶 For kids: Someone who's really, really good at planning and figuring things out. Like a super planner!
More Examples
The mastermind of the heist was never caught.
A renowned political strategist served as the mastermind for the election campaign.
How It's Used
"The mastermind behind the successful marketing campaign was awarded a promotion."
"The police are still searching for the mastermind of the bank robbery."
To plan and direct (an undertaking or event), especially one that is complicated or illegal.
/ˈmɑːstərmaɪnd/
To plan and direct
He masterminded the successful escape from the prison.
💡 Simply: To mastermind something means to be the one who comes up with the idea and makes sure everything happens according to plan, like a director making a movie.
👶 For kids: To be the boss of the plan! To be the one that sets the plan in action!
More Examples
They masterminded a complex financial scheme.
The campaign manager masterminded the media strategy.
How It's Used
"The CEO masterminded the company's restructuring plan."
"The rebels masterminded the overthrow of the government."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Mastermind group
A group of people who meet regularly to support and advise each other on business or personal goals.
"Joining a mastermind group helped her refine her business plan."
From 'master' (a person with skill and authority) and 'mind' (intellect). Originally used in military and intelligence contexts.
Initially employed in military and espionage contexts to denote a person who conceives of a major strategy or operation. It gained wider usage over time.
Memory tip
Think of a chess grandmaster, but in a broader sense, someone who skillfully plans and executes.