co-pilot
UK: /ˈkəʊˌpaɪ.lət/ | US: /ˈkoʊˌpaɪ.lət/
n. a second pilot who assists the primary pilot in operating an aircraft
n. (figuratively) a person who shares responsibility or leadership in a task or project
The word "co-pilot" combines the prefix "co-" (from Latin "com-," meaning "together") with "pilot" (from French "pilote," derived from Greek "pēdon" meaning "rudder"). The term emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of aviation, reflecting the need for a secondary pilot to share control of increasingly complex aircraft. The prefix "co-" emphasizes collaboration, while "pilot" retains its original sense of steering or guiding.
The co-pilot took over the controls while the captain rested.
She served as a co-pilot on the transatlantic flight.
In their startup, they functioned as co-pilots, making decisions jointly.
The co-pilot’s quick response prevented a potential disaster.
Training to become a co-pilot requires rigorous practice and certification.