a person who leads others, especially in opposition to authority, law, etc.: a ringleader of revolutionary activities.

What is a ringleader called?

A ringmaster or ringmistress, or sometimes a ringleader, is a significant performer in many circuses. Most often seen in traditional circuses, the ringmaster is a master of ceremonies that introduces the circus acts to the audience.

Where did the term ringleader come from?

The word ringleader is derived from the word ring and the word leader, and first appears in the 1300s. At that time, the word ringleader meant a person who leads a ring dance. Within one hundred years, the expression ringleader came to mean an instigator or someone who stirs up trouble. The plural form is ringleaders.