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staff

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /stæf/

KK: /stæf/

noun
Definition

A group of people who work together to support an organization or a leader, often in a professional setting.


Example

The staff at the hospital worked tirelessly to care for the patients.


Conversation
Sloth A
Who do you think is the most important member of the staff at our school?
Sloth B
I’d say the principal, but the teachers also play a huge role.
Sloth A
True! The staff really makes a difference in how we learn.
Sloth B
Absolutely, they all work together to create a great environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
crew
team
personnel
Antonyms
management
leadership
supervision
transitive verb
Definition

To provide a group of people to work for an organization or to assist in a task.


Example

The company decided to staff the new project with experienced professionals.


Tense Forms

Past: staffed

Past Participle: staffed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that they’re going to staff the new café with experienced baristas?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw that announcement! It sounds exciting.
Sloth A
I hope they staff it well; I really want to try their coffee.
Root Explanation

The word 'staff' originates from Old English 'stæf', meaning a stick or rod. It refers to a long, slender piece of wood used for support or as a tool.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'stick' or 'rod' that provides support — that's why 'staff' refers to a supportive tool or group.

Visually Confused Words
upstaff
restaff
distaff
taffy
stuff
stoff
stiff
snaff
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Same here! Good staff can make all the difference in a place.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
employ
hire
assign
Antonyms
dismiss
fire
remove