Chairman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chairman

[ˈtʃɛːmən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

meeting

The person who presides over a meeting, committee, or organization.

Synonyms

chair, leader, president.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chairman

Typically used in formal settings, such as business meetings, boards of directors, or official committees. It indicates the person who presides over a meeting or organization.

  • The chairman of the board called the meeting to order
  • The event was directed by the chairman
president

Generally used for someone who holds the highest position in an organization, company, or country. This title carries a strong implication of authority and responsibility.

  • The president of the company announced the new policy
  • He was elected as the president of the country
chair

Often used interchangeably with 'chairman' but can be seen as a gender-neutral term. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

  • The chair of the committee reviewed the agenda
  • She was appointed as the new chair of the department
leader

A broader term that refers to someone who guides or directs a group, organization, or country. It can be used in various contexts, not limited to formal settings.

  • A good leader always listens to their team
  • He is a natural leader on the sports field

Examples of usage

  • The chairman called the meeting to order.
  • The chairman of the board made an announcement.
Context #2 | Noun

company

The head of a company or organization.

Synonyms

CEO, director, president.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chairman

This title is used for someone who leads a board of directors or a committee.

  • The chairman called the meeting to order
  • Jane is the new chairman of the community committee
CEO

This is the highest-ranking executive in a company, responsible for making major corporate decisions.

  • The CEO announced the new corporate strategy
  • As the CEO, he oversees all the company's operations
president

This title can refer to the head of a company or an organization and is often used interchangeably with CEO in some contexts.

  • The president of the company addressed the employees
  • As president, he focuses on the long-term goals of the business
director

This term refers to a senior manager in charge of a specific department or organization.

  • She is the director of marketing
  • The board of directors met to discuss the annual report

Examples of usage

  • The chairman of the company is responsible for making major decisions.
  • The chairman of the organization was well-respected by all employees.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'chairman'

The word 'chairman' originated in the late 16th century, originally meaning 'one who presides over a meeting'. It is derived from the word 'chair' in the sense of a seat of authority. Over the years, the term has evolved to also refer to the head of a company or organization.


See also: armchair, chair, chairperson, chairs, chairwoman.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,248, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.