Foreman

/ˈfɔːrmən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person in charge of a group of workers, especially in a manual labor context, who oversees their activities and ensures that tasks are completed correctly.

The foreman inspected the construction site to ensure that the workers were following safety regulations.

A supervisor or leader in various trades or sectors, not limited to construction.

As the foreman of the factory, he was responsible for managing the production line efficiency.

In a legal context, the foreman refers to the head juror who leads the deliberations of the jury.

The foreman presented the jury's verdict to the court after hours of deliberation.

Etymology

From Middle English for(e)man, meaning 'before the men'; from fore + man.

Common Phrases and Expressions

foreman of the jury

The leading member of a jury who ensures order.

crew foreman

A supervisor of a specific crew or group of workers.

construction foreman

A person responsible for overseeing construction workers.

Related Words

supervisor

A person who oversees the work of others.

manager

A person responsible for controlling or administering an organization.

Slang Meanings

The boss

He's the boss around here, the foreman runs the site.

The lead guy

I'm checking in with the lead guy, the foreman, before we start.