Lieutenant: meaning, definitions and examples

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lieutenant

 

[ lɛfˈtɛnənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

military rank

A lieutenant is a rank in the armed forces, typically above a sergeant and below a captain. Lieutenants are usually responsible for leading a platoon of soldiers.

Synonyms

officer, second-in-command, subaltern

Examples of usage

  • The lieutenant led his troops into battle.
  • She was promoted to lieutenant after years of dedicated service.
  • Lieutenants often receive special training in leadership and tactics.
Context #2 | Noun

naval rank

In the navy, a lieutenant is a commissioned officer rank above an ensign and below a lieutenant commander. Lieutenants in the navy may be in charge of a small vessel or a division of sailors.

Synonyms

lieutenant at sea, lieutenant junior grade, naval officer

Examples of usage

  • The lieutenant oversaw the navigation of the ship.
  • She was the first female lieutenant in her naval unit.
  • Lieutenants play a crucial role in maintaining discipline aboard a naval vessel.
Context #3 | Noun

police rank

In law enforcement, a lieutenant is a senior officer rank above a sergeant and below a captain. Lieutenants in the police force often supervise a team of officers and are involved in strategic decision-making.

Synonyms

detective, police officer, senior officer

Examples of usage

  • The lieutenant coordinated the investigation of the crime scene.
  • He was promoted to lieutenant after years of exemplary service.
  • Lieutenants play a key role in ensuring public safety and order.

Translations

Translations of the word "lieutenant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tenente

🇮🇳 लेफ्टिनेंट

🇩🇪 Leutnant

🇮🇩 letnan

🇺🇦 лейтенант

🇵🇱 porucznik

🇯🇵 中尉 (ちゅうい)

🇫🇷 lieutenant

🇪🇸 teniente

🇹🇷 teğmen

🇰🇷 중위 (jungwi)

🇸🇦 ملازم (mulazim)

🇨🇿 poručík

🇸🇰 poručík

🇨🇳 中尉 (zhōng wèi)

🇸🇮 poročnik

🇮🇸 liðsforingi

🇰🇿 лейтенант

🇬🇪 ლეიტენანტი (leitenant’i)

🇦🇿 leytenant

🇲🇽 teniente

Etymology

The word 'lieutenant' originated from the French word 'lieu' (place) and 'tenant' (holding), meaning someone who holds a place or position in the absence of a superior. The term was first used in the 14th century to refer to a deputy or substitute, especially in a military context. Over time, 'lieutenant' became associated with various ranks in the armed forces, navy, and police, reflecting the responsibility and leadership associated with the role.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,779 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.