English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word chief in English

What does chief mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

chief

US /tʃiːf/
UK /tʃiːf/
"chief" picture

Noun

1.

a leader or ruler of a people or clan

Example:
•
The chief of the tribe made an important announcement.
•
He was elected as the new chief of the village.
Synonym:
leaderheadcommanderrulerchieftain
2.

the head of an organization or department

Example:
•
The chief of police addressed the media.
•
She was promoted to chief financial officer.
Synonym:
headdirectormanagersupervisorexecutive

Adjective

1.

most important or principal

Example:
•
The chief reason for his success was hard work.
•
Our chief concern is the safety of our employees.
Synonym:
mainprincipalprimaryforemostleading
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