Synonyms for

Captain

Verb / ˈkæptʌn / Another word for captain — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person who is in charge of a group of people or a ship.

Synonyms & similar words

policecaptain headwaiter chieftain maitred policechief seacaptain skipper master seniorpilot maitredhotel commander leader skipper chief master boss officer pilot admiral commodore head director foreman overseer supervisor manager principal governor president

Synonyms by register

Formal

commander leader chief head

Informal

boss chief skipper head honcho

Literary

helmsman master chieftain

Antonyms

follower subordinate crewman ranker enlisted private

Common collocations

  • captain of the ship
  • team captain
  • captain of industry
  • captain's log
  • captain hook
  • captain america
  • captain of the guard

Word family

noun captaincy
verb captain
adjective captainly

Usage note

While 'captain' can refer to the commander of a ship or aircraft, it is also commonly used for the leader of a sports team. 'Skipper' is a more informal synonym, especially in nautical contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The captain of the ship made sure everyone was safe during the storm.
  2. The captain of the basketball team made the final shot to win the game.
  3. The captain of the plane announced that we would be landing soon.
  4. The captain of the debate team prepared his team for the competition.
  5. The captain of the army led his troops into battle.

Quotes

  • The captain goes down with the ship.
  • A good captain is not made from calm seas.
  • A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.

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