captain

Definition

A chief or leader.

Etymology

From Middle English capitain, capteyn, from Old French capitaine, from Late Latin capitāneus, from Latin caput (“head”) (English cap). Ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *kap-. Doublet of chieftain, also from Old French.

Example Sentences

• "For out of the shal come a captaine, whych shall govern my people israhel."
• "Stand up-stand up, Northumberland! / I bid you answer true, / If England's King has under his hand / A Captain as good as you?"
• "Merchants, common sailors, captains of vessels, skippers, […] naval officers of all countries, and the Governments of several states on the two continents, were deeply interested in the matter."