Definition

A person who is in charge of a college or a specific department in a university, responsible for managing academic affairs and supporting students.

Example

The dean announced new policies to improve student engagement in the college.

Conversation

Have you met the new dean yet?

Yeah, I ran into him at the welcome event last week.

What do you think of him?

He seems really approachable and supportive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dean → The word 'dean' originates from the Latin 'decanus' (meaning leader of ten), which is derived from 'decem' (meaning ten). Originally, a dean was a leader or chief of a group of ten people, often in a religious or academic context.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'leader' ('decanus') of a small group ('ten') — that's why a dean is someone who leads a specific area or department.

Visually Confused Words