Meaning & Definition of word "Superintendent"

Superintendent

/ˌsuː.pər.ɪnˈtɛn.dənt/

noun:

  • 1. A person who has the responsibility for the management or oversight of a specific area, often in a school district or municipal setting.
    • Example: The superintendent of schools implemented new educational programs to enhance student learning.
  • 2. A person in charge of a building or a facility, responsible for the maintenance and operation.
    • Example: The superintendent of the apartment complex ensured that all maintenance requests were addressed promptly.
  • 3. A person who oversees a specific project or area of work, often in a construction or engineering context.
    • Example: The construction superintendent monitored the progress of the building project to ensure it was completed on time.
  • 4. An official in charge of a particular department or an administrative area.
    • Example: The park superintendent managed the resources and staff in the national park.

Etymology

From Latin 'superintendentem', present participle of 'superintendere', meaning 'to oversee'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

building superintendent:

A person responsible for the maintenance of a building.

superintendent of schools:

An individual who oversees a school district's administration.

school superintendent:

The chief executive officer of a school district.

Related Words

administrator:

A person responsible for running an organization or group.

manager:

A person responsible for controlling or administering an organization or group.

director:

A person who leads or oversees a particular department or activity.

Slang Meanings of superintendent

Meaning: Boss

Example Sentence: He thinks he's the big boss in the office, acting like a superintendent.

Meaning: Chief

Example Sentence: The chief in charge of the project is more of a superintendent than a colleague.