skipper
UK: ˈskɪpə | US: ˈskɪpər
n. 1. The captain of a ship or boat.
n. 2. A person who leads or directs a team or organization.
n. 3. (Informal) One who skips or avoids something.
vt. To act as the captain or leader of a vessel or group.
The word "skipper" originates from the Middle Dutch word schipper, meaning "shipmaster," derived from schip (ship) + the agent suffix -er. The verb "skip" (to move lightly) influenced its informal usage for someone who avoids responsibilities. The suffix -er denotes agency, forming a noun for a person performing an action. Over time, "skipper" evolved to describe leaders in both nautical and non-nautical contexts.
The skipper navigated the yacht through the storm.
She was appointed skipper of the debate team.
Don’t be a skipper—attend the meeting today.
He skippered the fishing boat for over a decade.
The cricket skipper motivated the team before the match.