Definition

Proper noun A United States showman (1863-1926) who was a founding member of the Ringling Brothers circus empire. He was instrumental in evolving a song-and-dance troupe into one of the largest and most famous circuses in American history.

Usage

The term is used as a proper name to refer to the historical figure. * Charles Ringling was one of the five original Ringling brothers. * The circus's expansion was significantly driven by Charles Ringling.

Advanced Usage

• The name is often used in historical and biographical contexts discussing the development of American entertainment and the circus industry.
• It can appear in discussions about business partnerships and family-run enterprises in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and Related Words

• Ringling Brothers: The collective name for the circus founded by Charles Ringling and his brothers.
• Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: The later combined name of the circus, often called "The Greatest Show on Earth."

Synonyms

• Showman
• Circus impresario
• Entertainment entrepreneur

Related Phrases

• Ringling family: Refers to the entire family of circus owners and performers.
• Circus founder: A general term for which Charles Ringling is a specific example.

Noun

1. United States showman whose song-and-dance troop evolved into a circus (1863-1926)