The Open Dictionary

kingpin

noun

UK/ˈkɪŋ.pɪn/
US/ˈkɪŋ.pɪn/

Definitions of kingpin noun

  1. Countable

    the most important person in a group or organization

    • After years of investigation, the police finally apprehended the kingpin of the drug trafficking ring.

    • The kingpin of this crime syndicate is known to be a cunning and ruthless individual.

    • The media exposed the corruption within the company and identified the kingpin behind it.