mastermind

A mastermind is someone who comes up with clever plans or ideas, often behind the scenes. This person might not always get credit for their work, but they play a crucial role in making things happen.

When we talk about a mastermind, we're usually thinking of someone who's been secretly working on a project or scheme. Maybe it's a businessman who comes up with a brilliant marketing strategy, an artist who conceives a bold new idea, or a hacker who figures out a way to break into a secure system. The key thing is that the mastermind's plans are often complex and require careful thought and planning. They might work alone or with others, but their input is essential to the success of the project.

In some cases, "mastermind" can also be used to describe someone who's being manipulated by another person - this is called a victim of a mastermind. In this sense, the word takes on a slightly more negative tone, implying that the person is being used for someone else's gain without even realizing it.