Officer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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officer
[ˈɒfɪsər ]
Definitions
law enforcement
A person in a position of authority, especially in the police or military.
Synonyms
constable, cop, law enforcement officer, policeman.
Examples of usage
- The police officer helped direct traffic after the accident.
- The officer in charge gave orders to the troops.
official
A person holding a position of authority in a government or organization.
Synonyms
administrator, executive, leader, official.
Examples of usage
- The chief financial officer is responsible for managing the company's finances.
- The officer of the court ensured that the legal procedures were followed.
military
A person holding a position of authority in the military.
Synonyms
commander, military officer, officer cadet.
Examples of usage
- The commanding officer led the troops into battle.
- The officer cadet trained to become a commissioned officer.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The concept of an officer as a leader dates back to ancient civilizations, where military and civic leaders were often designated roles.
- In medieval Europe, officers were tasked with maintaining order and executing laws, leading to the modern understanding of the role.
Pop Culture
- In movies, officers are often portrayed as heroes, fighting to protect the weak and uphold justice.
- Television shows like 'Law & Order' and 'CSI' have popularized the role of police officers and detectives in solving crimes.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that the presence of law enforcement officers can significantly affect people's feelings of safety in a community.
- The concept of authority and trust in officers is heavily influenced by societal norms and media representation.
Science
- Research in organizational behavior shows that effective leaders, often referred to as officers in a corporate context, inspire higher employee morale.
- Psychological studies have explored the impact of an officer's leadership style on team dynamics and performance.
Origin of 'officer'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'officer' comes from the Latin 'officium', meaning 'duty' or 'service'.
- In Old French, the term 'officier' referred to a person who held a position of responsibility.
The word 'officer' originated from Middle English 'officer', from Old French 'oficier', based on Latin 'officium' meaning 'performance of a task'. The term was first used in the 14th century to refer to a person holding a position of authority. Over time, 'officer' has become widely used in various contexts, including law enforcement, military, and official positions.
See also: office.