Stead

/stɛd/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The place or position that a person or thing occupies; a place or condition of being.
He took her place in the meeting, sitting in her stead.
In place of; instead.
She decided to bring cake in stead of cookies for the party.
A condition or situation in which something is substituted.
He was chosen to take the lead in stead of the director who was absent.

Etymology

Old English 'stede', meaning 'place, site, or position'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in someone's stead
in place of someone; as a substitute for someone.
to stand in stead
to serve in a particular role or capacity.

Related Words

steadfast
firm and constant; loyal.
steady
stable; not moving or changing.

Slang Meanings

to take the place of someone or something.
I'll be your stead if you can't make it to the party.