Definition

The role or position held by a dean, who is usually in charge of a specific department or division in a school or university.

Example

She was appointed to the deanship of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Conversation

Did you hear that Dr. Smith has been appointed to the deanship?

Yeah, I heard that! It's about time someone good got that position.

I wonder how her leadership will change things around here.

Me too! I think she'll bring a fresh perspective to the role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deanship is formed from "dean" (from Old English "deofn", meaning chief or leader) and "-ship" (meaning the state or condition of). The word "deanship" refers to the state or position of being a dean, a leader or chief in an academic or ecclesiastical context.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'dean' as a 'chief' or 'leader' in a school or organization, and '-ship' indicating a position or state. This helps you remember that 'deanship' is the position of being a dean.

Visually Confused Words