Meaning & Definition of word "Principal"

Principal

/ˈprɪn.sɪ.pəl/

1. the person with the highest authority in an organization, especially a school.
- Example: The principal of the school announced the new policies for the upcoming year.
2. a sum of money lent or invested, on which interest is paid.
- Example: After paying off the interest, the borrower still owed the principal amount of the loan.
3. a chief or leader in a particular area.
- Example: The principal investigator of the study presented the findings at the conference.

1. most important; primary.
- Example: Her principal concern was the safety of her children.
2. of or relating to a principal or to a principal sum.
- Example: He made a principal payment on the mortgage to reduce his debt.

From Latin 'principalis', meaning 'chief, principal', from 'princeps' meaning 'first, chief, leader'.

principal investigator:

The lead researcher or individual responsible for the conduct of a research project.

principal amount:

The original sum of money borrowed or invested, before interest.

principal office:

The main or primary office of a business or organization.

principality:

A state or territory ruled by a prince or princess.

principled:

Acting according to moral principles.

prince:

A male royal family member, often the son of a king.

Meaning: The boss or head person in charge.

Example Sentence: He's the principal around here, so you need to get his approval.

Meaning: The primary or main focus.

Example Sentence: Our principal aim is to increase sales this quarter.