Captain

/ˈkæp.tɪn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The person in command of a ship or a military unit.

The captain gave orders to the crew as they prepared to set sail.

A person who is the leader of a team or group.

She was chosen as the captain of the basketball team for her leadership skills.

A rank in the military or police.

He was promoted to the rank of captain after several years of exemplary service.

verb

To act as the captain of a group or team.

He will captain the soccer team during the championship match.

Middle French 'capitaine', from Latin 'capitanus', from 'caput' meaning 'head'.

Captain obvious

A term used to mock someone who states the obvious.

Under captain's orders

Acting according to directives from a leader.

Become the captain of your own ship

Take control of your life and decisions.

first mate

The officer below the captain on a ship or aircraft.

commander

An officer in command of forces.

crew

A group of people who operate a ship or aircraft.

An informal term for someone who is taking charge.

He acted like the captain of the group project.

To be in a position of authority, especially in a social setting.

She capped the dinner party like a true captain.