leader
UK: ˈliː.dər | US: ˈliː.dɚ
n. a person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country
n. someone who is in charge or ahead in a competition
n. a leading article in a newspaper (chiefly British)
leader = lead<guide> + er<agent noun suffix>
- lead: From Old English lǣdan ("to guide, bring"), derived from Proto-Germanic laidijaną ("to cause to go"). Retains the core meaning of guiding or directing.
- er: A common English suffix denoting "one who does" (e.g., teacher, runner).
Etymology Origin:
The word "leader" emerged in Middle English (14th century) by combining the verb "lead" with the agentive suffix "-er." Its logic is straightforward: a leader is "one who leads." The verb "lead" itself traces back to Old English and Germanic roots, originally tied to physical guidance (e.g., leading a horse) before expanding to abstract leadership.
She was elected leader of the team due to her strategic vision.
The newspaper published a leader criticizing government policies.
He is a natural leader who inspires confidence in others.
The company’s leader announced a new sustainability initiative.
In the race, the Kenyan runner quickly became the leader.