English Lexicon

Mastermind

/ˈmæstərˌmaɪnd/
nounverbCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A person who is exceptionally intelligent or skilled at planning and organizing complex tasks.

    "The mastermind behind the project was praised for his innovative ideas."
As verb
  1. 1

    To plan and direct a complex project or scheme.

    "She masterminded the entire event, ensuring every detail was perfect."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'mastermind' originates from the Middle English 'maister' (master) and 'mind', with roots in Old English 'mægen' (strength) and 'gemynd' (memory). It evolved in the 19th century to denote a person with exceptional intellectual ability or strategic planning skills.

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