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Definition of mastermind

mastermind

/ˈmæstərˌmaɪnd/
mas · ter · mind
Plural:masterminds
•
Past Simple:masterminded
•
Past Participle:masterminded
•
Present Participle:masterminding
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mastermind Lexical Profile

mastermind Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person with an outstanding intellect who plans and directs an intricate or ambitious project, organization, or scheme.

Example

"She was widely credited as the financial mastermind behind the company's rapid global expansion."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To plan, direct, and supervise the execution of (a complex project, strategy, or enterprise).

Example

"The veteran curator masterminded the museum's new international exhibition from start to finish."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

mastering
masterless
masterly
mastermind
masterpiece
masterplan
masterstroke

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 18th century as an English compound combining 'master' (from Latin magister, meaning 'chief' or 'director') and 'mind' (from Old English gemynd, meaning 'memory' or 'intellect').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mastermind. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mastermind
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