superintendent
14 synonyms and 0 antonyms for superintendent, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A person who supervises or manages an organisation, department, or building.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Ecclesiastical Latin superintendens, itself modelled on Greek episkopos — the same root that eventually gives English "bishop".
Full origin of superintendent →Frequently asked questions
What does “superintendent” mean?
The word “superintendent” means a person who supervises or manages an organisation, department, or building. In plain terms, someone in charge of overseeing an organisation, school district, building, or police unit.
How do you pronounce “superintendent”?
“Superintendent” is pronounced syoo-puh-rihn-TEHN-duhnt (/ˌsjuːpəɹɪnˈtɛndənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “superintendent” in a sentence?
Here is “superintendent” used in a sentence: “The school superintendent announced new budget cuts.”
What is another word for “superintendent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “superintendent” include manager, foreman, chief, head, head man and controller.
What part of speech is “superintendent”?
“Superintendent” is a noun.
Where does the word “superintendent” come from?
The word “superintendent” comes from Latin. From Ecclesiastical Latin superintendens, itself modelled on Greek episkopos — the same root that eventually gives English "bishop".
Is “superintendent” a common word?
“Superintendent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “superintendent” have?
“Superintendent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who supervises or manages an organisation, department, or building.
What is the difference between a "superintendent" and a "supervisor"?
Both oversee people or work, but a "superintendent" usually holds a higher, more managerial position with responsibility for an entire organisation, department, or building. A "supervisor" typically oversees a smaller team or a specific task and often reports to more senior managers.
What is the difference between a "superintendent" and a "janitor" or "custodian"?
A "janitor" or "custodian" mainly cleans and carries out basic maintenance, while a building "superintendent" manages the property more broadly, overseeing repairs, staff, and tenants' issues. The superintendent supervises the work and may direct custodial staff.
Where does "superintendent" rank in the UK police?
In UK-style police forces, "superintendent" is a senior rank above chief inspector and below chief superintendent. Officers at this level typically oversee larger operations or a policing area rather than day-to-day frontline duties.