leader
LEE-duh
Leader (noun) means a person who guides or is in charge of a group, organisation, or country. Example: “Our team leader makes sure everyone has a chance to speak.”
noun
1
A person who guides or is in charge of a group, organisation, or country.
"Our team leader makes sure everyone has a chance to speak."
"The team elected a new leader after the merger."
"World leaders gathered for the summit."
2
A person or organisation that ranks first in a particular field.
"This bakery is the market leader in the whole region."
"She became a leader in her field after years of research."
"The company is a leader in renewable energy technology."
How to use leader
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone or something that leads, guides, or ranks first.
Common pairings
team leader
world leader
market leader
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Word forms
- Plural
- leaders
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Our team _____ makes sure everyone has a chance to speak.
Etymology
From Old English lǣdere, "leader" — from the same root as "lead" (to guide) plus the agent suffix "-er."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for leader
See all rhymes for leader →Frequently asked questions
What does “leader” mean?
The word “leader” means a person who guides or is in charge of a group, organisation, or country. In plain terms, someone or something that leads, guides, or ranks first.
How do you pronounce “leader”?
“Leader” is pronounced LEE-duh (/ˈli.dɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “leader” in a sentence?
Here is “leader” used in a sentence: “The team elected a new leader after the merger.”
What is the opposite of “leader”?
The opposite of “leader” — its antonyms — is follower.
What part of speech is “leader”?
“Leader” is a noun.
Where does the word “leader” come from?
The word “leader” comes from Old English. From Old English lǣdere, "leader" — from the same root as "lead" (to guide) plus the agent suffix "-er.".
Is “leader” a common word?
“Leader” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “leader” have?
“Leader” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person who guides or is in charge of a group, organisation, or country.
What is the difference between a leader and a boss?
A boss holds authority because of their position and can direct people to do things. A leader earns influence by inspiring, guiding, and setting an example, whether or not they hold a formal title. Every boss can give orders, but not every boss is truly a leader people want to follow.
What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
A manager organises resources, plans, and keeps day-to-day work running smoothly. A leader sets direction and motivates people toward a shared vision. The roles often overlap in one person, but management is about maintaining systems, while leadership is about inspiring change and guiding others forward.
Can leadership be taught?
Largely, yes. While some people seem naturally confident, most leadership skills — communication, decision-making, motivating others, and handling pressure — can be learned and improved with training and practice. Experience matters too; leading real teams and reflecting on what works tends to develop ability more than talent alone.
What makes a good leader?
Good leaders tend to share clear vision, honesty, and the ability to communicate and listen well. They make decisions, take responsibility, and inspire trust rather than fear. Empathy and consistency matter as much as confidence: people follow leaders who respect them and set a dependable example.
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