Definition

The position or role of a leader of a tribe or clan, often associated with authority and governance.

Example

The chieftainship of the tribe was passed down through generations.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about what it means to hold chieftainship?

Not really, but it sounds like a big responsibility.

Yeah, it involves leading a community and making tough decisions.

I can see how that would be challenging but also rewarding.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chieftainship is formed from "chief" (from Old French *chief*, meaning leader or head) and "-tain" (from Old English *tāen*, meaning to hold or possess) combined with "-ship" (meaning the state or condition of). The word refers to the state or condition of being a leader or head of a group.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'chief' as a leader who 'holds' a position of authority, and '-ship' indicates the state of that role. This helps you remember that chieftainship means the condition of being a leader.

Visually Confused Words