captain
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈkæp.tɪn/
KK: /ˈkæptɪn/
noun
Definition
A person who is in charge of a group, team, or organization, often leading them in activities or operations.
Example
The captain of the ship gave orders to the crew during the storm.
Conversation
Did you hear that our friend is the new team captain?
Yeah, I heard! That’s so exciting for them.
I hope they lead us to victory this season as the captain.
With their skills, I’m sure we’ll have a great chance!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
leader
chief
commander
Antonyms
follower
subordinate
private
transitive verb
Definition
To lead or be in charge of a group or team, especially in a sports context.
Example
She captained the soccer team to victory in the championship.
Tense Forms
Past: captained
Past Participle: captained
Conversation
Did you hear that Jake captained the soccer team this season?
Yeah, I heard he did a great job leading them.
I wonder if he’ll captain the team again next year.
Root Explanation
Captain → It is derived from the Latin word "capitaneus" (meaning chief or leader), which comes from "caput" (meaning head). The term originally referred to a person who is the head or leader of a group, particularly in a military or naval context.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'head' ('caput') leading a group — that's why a captain is the leader of a team or crew.
Visually Confused Words
cataian
capstan
capitan
catan
subcaptain
coaptation
capitation
copatain