1. people who direct performances in a circus ring and introduce acts
2. people who control or orchestrate events or situations
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The ringmasters announced each act with dramatic flair.
• Two experienced ringmasters worked together to manage the three-ring circus.
• The political ringmasters coordinated the campaign events.
• Corporate ringmasters orchestrated the merger negotiations.
• The ringmasters cracked their whips to signal the start of the show.
• Behind the scenes, the ringmasters of the organization made all the key decisions.