Synonyms for

Chairman

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

Definition

A person who leads or presides over a meeting, organization, committee, or board.

Synonyms & similar words

chairperson president chairwoman chair president head leader director chief executive governor manager supervisor foreman overseer moderator facilitator conductor presider chair chairwoman chairperson chairlady chairperson

Synonyms by register

Formal

chairperson presiding officer head leader

Informal

boss chief head honcho the one in charge

Literary

convener moderator

Antonyms

subordinate follower member rank-and-file employee worker

Common collocations

  • elected chairman
  • new chairman
  • former chairman
  • appointed chairman
  • chairman of the board
  • chairman of the committee
  • acting chairman

Word family

noun chairman
verb chair

Usage note

The term 'chairman' is increasingly being replaced by the gender-neutral term 'chairperson' or simply 'chair' in many contexts. While still widely understood, its use may be perceived as dated or non-inclusive by some.

Example sentences

  1. The chairman of the school board announced the new policy.
  2. The chairman of the meeting asked for everyone's opinion.
  3. The chairman of the committee organized the fundraiser.
  4. The chairman of the company made an important decision.
  5. The chairman of the board was elected by the shareholders.

Quotes

  • "A good chairman knows when to speak and when to be silent and let others have their say." - William Wilfred Campbell
  • "The chairman of the board is not the boss. The shareholders are the boss." - Peter Drucker
  • "A chairman's job is to look after the shareholders." - Michael O'Leary

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