Chief

/tʃiːf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A leader or ruler of a people or clan.

The chief of the tribe called a meeting to discuss their future.

A person in authority or control; a boss.

She reported directly to the chief of operations.

adjective

Highest in rank or importance.

His chief concern is the safety of his employees.

Principal; primary.

The chief source of income for the family was small business.

Middle English, from Old French 'chief', from Latin 'caput' meaning 'head'

chief among:

The most important among a group.

chief concern:

The primary worry or focus.

chief executive officer:

The highest-ranking officer in a company.

in chief:

In the highest or most important position.

Used informally to refer to a friend or person in a casual manner.

Hey, chief! What's up?

A respectful term for someone in charge.

You got it, chief, I’ll get that done.