Lieutenant

/lɛfˈtɛnənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An officer in the armed forces, typically ranking just below a captain.

The lieutenant led his platoon into the training exercise.

A person who acts as a deputy or assistant to someone in a higher position.

As the lieutenant to the CEO, she was responsible for many critical decisions.

In some police forces, a rank below captain.

The lieutenant arrived at the scene to oversee the investigation.

In the context of the British military, a subaltern or junior officer.

The young lieutenant was eager to prove himself in battle.

An official who represents a governor in a province or territory.

The lieutenant governor addressed the assembly during the session.

From Middle French 'lieutenant', meaning 'place-holder'.

lieutenant governor

A deputy governor who acts in place of the governor.

first lieutenant

The highest junior officer rank in the military, usually above second lieutenant.

lieutenant commander

A naval rank equivalent to a lieutenant in other branches of the military.

captain

A military officer of the highest rank below a major.

colonel

A senior military officer ranking above lieutenant colonel.

major

A military officer ranking above captain and below lieutenant colonel.

Short for 'lieutenant' when used informally.

Hey, lieutenant, do you have the reports ready?

Used to refer to an assistant or subordinate in a casual manner.

He's my lieutenant in the project, always backing me up.