Captain: meaning, definitions and examples

Also used in the military context, particularly for a specific rank in various armed forces.

• Captain Smith led his soldiers with discipline

An inclusive term for anyone who guides, directs, or influences a group or organization.

• The leader of the environmental movement inspired many followers
• She was elected as the leader of the committee

Generally used in a military context, referring to an officer in charge of a group of soldiers or operations.

• The navy commander issued the orders
• The mission commander ensured everything went according to plan

A more informal term mainly used for the captain of a small ship or boat, or casually for the captain of a sports team.

• The skipper of the fishing boat decided to head back to shore
• The cricket team’s skipper made a strategic play

Used for a leader or ruler of a group or tribe, or the head of an organization or department.

• The chief of the village made the final decision
• The police chief announced new safety measures

Used to refer to the leader of a sports team, a ship, or an aircraft. It conveys authority and responsibility.

• The captain of the soccer team gave an inspiring speech before the match.
• The ship's captain navigates through rough waters.

Commonly used in organizational and business settings to describe someone who leads a group of people working towards a specific goal.

• The team leader scheduled a meeting to discuss the project milestones.
• As a team leader, she ensures that everyone stays on task.

Often used informally to refer to the captain of a small boat or a sports team, particularly in British English.

• The skipper of the fishing boat decided to anchor near the shore.
• The cricket skipper led the team to victory.

Refers to someone who trains and instructs athletes or a team in sports. Also can be used for someone who mentors individuals or groups in various fields.

• The coach planned a rigorous training session for the basketball team.
• She is a life coach who helps people achieve their personal goals.

The person in charge of a ship, aircraft, or a sports team.

• The captain of the airplane announced our arrival time
• The football team is led by its captain

Informal term for the captain of a boat, small ship, or sometimes a sports team.

• The skipper of our fishing boat was very experienced
• The team's skipper guided them to victory

The person commanding a commercial ship; also, someone who has control or dominance over something or someone. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to dominance over others.

• The master of the vessel ensured all safety protocols were followed
• He is the master of his own destiny

A person who has control, especially over a military unit or operation. Often used in formal or military contexts.

• The commander gave a briefing on the upcoming mission
• As a commander, she coordinated the entire operation

Used primarily in the context of sports teams or ships. A captain is a person who is in charge of a group or team.

• The captain of the soccer team motivated his players before the match
• The ship's captain navigated through the storm

Used broadly in many contexts, including business, politics, and personal development. To lead means to guide or inspire others.

• He leads a team of software developers
• She leads by example, inspiring her colleagues with her dedication

Often used in military contexts to indicate authority and control. Also used in situations where someone has complete control over a situation or group.

• The general took command of all the forces in the area
• She commanded the room with her powerful speech

Commonly used in organizational or movie contexts to indicate guiding or managing activities. It highlights giving instructions or overseeing actions.

• She was hired to direct the new project at the company
• The famous director oversaw every detail of the movie production