presidential
preh-zih-DEHNSHL
Presidential (adj) means relating to a president or the office of president. Example: “The presidential election drew record turnout.”
adj
1
Relating to a president or the office of president.
"The presidential election drew record turnout."
"Security was tight around the presidential motorcade."
"The presidential palace is open to visitors once a year."
2
Having the dignified, authoritative bearing associated with a president.
"He carried himself with a presidential air even before the win."
"Her calm voice and steady gaze gave the speech a presidential feel."
"He walked into the room with a presidential confidence that silenced everyone."
How to use presidential
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with a president, or having a dignified, leader-like manner.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
presidential election
presidential candidate
presidential suite
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more presidential
- Superlative
- most presidential
Fill the gap
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The _____ election drew record turnout.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
unpresidential
Related words
Rhymes for presidential
See all rhymes for presidential →Frequently asked questions
What does “presidential” mean?
The word “presidential” means relating to a president or the office of president. In plain terms, to do with a president, or having a dignified, leader-like manner.
How do you pronounce “presidential”?
“Presidential” is pronounced preh-zih-DEHNSHL (/pɹɛzɪˈdɛnʃ(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “presidential” in a sentence?
Here is “presidential” used in a sentence: “The presidential election drew record turnout.”
What part of speech is “presidential”?
“Presidential” is an adjective.
Is “presidential” a common word?
“Presidential” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “presidential” have?
“Presidential” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to a president or the office of president.
What is an example of presidential?
You will hear "presidential" in phrases like a presidential election, a presidential campaign, presidential powers, or the presidential palace. It can also describe conduct, as when a calm, commanding speech is called "very presidential." In each case the word ties the thing back to a president or the office.
What is the difference between presidential and presidency?
"Presidential" is an adjective describing something related to a president, as in a presidential decision. "Presidency" is a noun naming the office itself or a president's term in it, as in "during her presidency." One modifies other words; the other names the role or the period in office.
Does presidential always relate to a country's leader?
Not always. While it often refers to a head of state, "presidential" can describe the president of any organization — a university, company, society, or club. A presidential address at a scientific society, for example, is a speech by that body's president, not by a national leader.
Can presidential be a compliment?
Yes. Beyond its literal meaning, calling someone or their behaviour "presidential" is often praise, suggesting they seem dignified, composed, and capable of leadership. Commentators use it this way about public figures who handle pressure with authority and grace, as though they were fit for the highest office.
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