Lieutenant: meaning, definitions and examples
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lieutenant
[ lɛfˈtɛnənt ]
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.
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.
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
Word origin
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.