Crossword Genius

Top campanologists? (11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ringleaders

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'top campanologists?' is the definition.
The definition suggests a plural noun which matches the answer.

'top campanologists?' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'top' could be 'lead' (both can mean 'most important') and 'lead' is present in the answer.
'campanologists?' could be 'ringers' (I've seen this before) and 'ringers' is located in the leftover letters.
No letters remain.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ringleaders that I've seen before include "Criminal bosses" , "mischief-makers to be found" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app