principal

US /ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/
UK /ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/
"principal" picture
1.

the head of a school or college

:
The principal announced the new school policy.
She met with the principal to discuss her child's progress.
2.

a sum of money lent or invested on which interest is paid

:
The monthly payment covers both principal and interest.
It's important to pay down the principal on your loan.
3.

a leading or most important actor, singer, or dancer in a play or opera or ballet

:
She played the principal role in the ballet.
The tenor was the principal singer in the opera.
1.

first in order of importance; main

:
The principal reason for his success was hard work.
Our principal concern is the safety of our employees.