WordGarden.iochief
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /tʃˈiːf/
US
- /ˈtʃif/
Meanings
Noun
the person in charge of an organization, department, service, or group
a traditional leader of a people, clan, or tribe
(informal)an informal way to address a man or boy, sometimes patronizing
Adjective
most important or main
Beyond the definition
The word "chief" can mean the person in charge—like the chief of police or the chief executive officer (CEO) of a company. But it doesn't always refer to people. It can also describe whatever matters most: a "chief ingredient" in a recipe is the most important one, and the "chief reason" for something is the main cause. The word comes from the Old French chef, meaning "head," so it naturally points to what’s at the top. There’s also the related adverb "chiefly," meaning "mainly" or "for the most part": if someone is chiefly responsible for a task, they are primarily responsible.
"Chief" is a versatile word with roots stretching back to medieval times, originally denoting the highest rank or position. Most commonly, "chief" refers to the person who leads or commands—the chief of a tribe, the chief of staff, or even the chief cook in a busy kitchen. These are individuals holding authority and responsibility over others.
However, "chief" isn't limited to people. It can also describe something that is principal, main, or most important. We talk about the chief reason for a decision, the chief export of a country, or the chief characteristic of a personality. Think of it as identifying what is at the very top of the list.
There’s also the related adverb "chiefly," meaning primarily or mainly. "He is chiefly known for his work on climate change" indicates that this is his most significant accomplishment. You might even hear "chief" used in a title, like "Chief Justice," denoting the highest judicial officer.
Historically, "chief" was often used for leaders of tribes and communities. While its usage has broadened over time, the core meaning remains consistent: something or someone at the very top, holding power, importance, or a primary position. So whether you're talking about a leader, an ingredient, or a reason—if it's chief, it's essential.
Examples
- 1
Police role
She spoke to the police chief after the meeting.
- 2
Engineering role
He was promoted to chief engineer last year.
- 3
Main reason
The chief reason for the delay was bad weather.
- 4
Main concern
Safety is our chief concern.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Staff role
She served as chief of staff for two years.
- 6
Editorial title
The editor in chief approved the final version.
- Phraseeditor in chief
the most senior editor
- 7
Priority ranking
Chief among his worries was the cost of medical care.
- Phrasechief among
more important than the others
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- police chief
- fire chief
- tribal chief
- chief of staff
Word family
- chiefdom
- chieftain
Explore
- leadership
- chain of command
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- chiefnounadjective
Forms
- chiefspluralnounadjective