the leader or most important person in a group or organization, the head of a tribe or clan

big chief, top dog (or chief), number one (or chief)

in chief, cook in chief, chief among

Formal and Informal Expressions of chief

In different contexts, you can replace 'chief' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'leader, director' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'boss, head honcho' is a commonplace synonym.

chief: Explore its Definition & Usage

chief Definition

1the leader or most important person in a group or organization
2the head of a tribe or clan

Using chief: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "chief" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The chief of police held a press conference.
Example
He was appointed as the new chief of staff.
Example
The chief of the tribe welcomed us warmly.
Example
The chief executive officer made the final decision.

chief Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chief

Antonyms for chief

Idioms Using chief

big chief
a person who has a lot of power or authority, especially in a company or organization
Example
The big chief of the corporation was not happy with the latest financial report.
top dog (or chief)
the person who has the most power or authority in a particular situation
Example
He became the top dog in the company after the previous CEO retired.
number one (or chief)
the most important or successful person in a particular group or field
Example
She is considered the number one expert in her field.

Phrases with chief

in chief
having the highest rank or authority in a particular area
Example
The president is the commander in chief of the armed forces.
cook in chief
a humorous way of referring to the person who does most of the cooking in a household
Example
My wife is the cook in chief in our family.
chief among
most important or significant among a group of things or people
Example
Education is chief among the priorities of this government.

Origins of chief

from Old French 'chief', from Latin 'caput', meaning 'head'

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Summary: chief in Brief

The term 'chief' [tʃiːf] refers to the leader or most important person in a group or organization, exemplified by 'The chief of police held a press conference.' It also denotes the head of a tribe or clan. 'Chief' extends into phrases like 'in chief,' and idioms like 'big chief,' denoting a person with a lot of power or authority, and 'top dog,' implying the most powerful person in a particular situation.