Definition

A person who is in charge of managing or overseeing a particular organization, project, or group, often with authority to make decisions.

Example

The superintendent of the school district announced new policies for the upcoming year.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new superintendent at our school?

Yeah, I heard they have a lot of great plans for improvements.

I hope they make some changes to the lunch menu, too.

That would be awesome! A good superintendent can really make a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Superintendent → It is formed from "super-" (meaning above or over) and "intendere" (meaning to stretch or direct). The word refers to someone who directs or oversees from a position of authority, thus being above others in a supervisory role.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'above' ('super-') and 'directing' ('intendere') others — that's why a superintendent is someone who oversees and manages.

Visually Confused Words