crime lord

Syndicate's top figure

A crime lord is someone who controls a large criminal organization, typically overseeing illegal enterprises like drug trafficking, gambling, or racketeering.

The term evokes hierarchical power—a boss at the top of an underworld empire: The crime lord ran the city's drug trade for decades.

Synonymous with kingpin or mob boss.

authority

godfather

Male baptismal guardian

  • donPut on attire
  • kingpinCriminal organization's leader
  • bossWorkplace superior

capo · overlord · patriarch · chieftain · mastermind · ringleader · underboss · consigliere · lieutenant · enforcer

organization

syndicate

Combined group pursuing shared interest

  • mafiaCriminal organization using intimidation
  • cartelPrice-fixing coalition
  • outfitSet of clothes worn together

triad · yakuza · gang · network · empire · family · clan · ring · racket · consortium

operations

trafficking

Illegal transport for profit

extortion · bribery · narcotics · contraband · hitman · shakedown · protection · gambling · prostitution · fencing

intimidation

fear

Emotional response to threat

  • terrorExtreme, overwhelming fear
  • menaceSource of potential harm
  • threatIndication of potential harm

coercion · dread · violence · retaliation · vendetta · assassination · brutality · ruthlessness · execution · torture

power

dominance

Superior influence over others

reign · empire · territory · sovereignty · command · supremacy · authority · clout · reach · network

wealth

fortune

Wealth or destiny

laundered · offshore · illicit · opulence · extravagant · cash · gold · diamonds · casino · nightclub

Categories
Opposites
legality and social role

crime lordpillar of the community

Respected local leader

philanthropist · civic leader · saint · captain of industry · community leader

hierarchical position in criminal world

crime lordpetty criminal

One who commits minor offenses

foot soldier · henchman · errand boy · underling · lackey

relationship to crime

crime lordpolice chief

Law enforcement leader

crime fighter · district attorney · FBI director · detective · prosecutor

Family

crime, criminal, lord, criminals, criminality, incriminate, incrimination, incriminating, crime boss

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG