head
noun (countable)
UKhedUShed
a person who is in charge or in a leading position; the chief or leader of a group or organization
Example Sentences
She was appointed head of the department last year.
The head of the committee called an emergency meeting to address the issue.
He served as the head of the organization for over a decade.
We need to talk to the head of security to get clearance.
The head of our team gave a motivating speech this morning.
Sometimes, being the head of a project means bearing both the praise for success and the responsibility for failure.
Their business prospered under the new head, who instituted innovative policies and fostered a supportive workplace culture.
Taking on the role of head can be daunting, yet it also offers the chance to guide an entire team toward achieving their collective vision.
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verb (transitive)
UKhedUShed
to go or move in a particular direction; to lead or be in charge of something
Example Sentences
We should head to the airport now to avoid traffic.
She will head the marketing campaign for the upcoming product launch.
If you head east from here, you’ll reach the old lighthouse.
He has been chosen to head the new research division.
The hikers plan to head back before sunset to avoid the cold night.
They decided to head straight to the station after the conference ended.
When you head a project, it’s crucial to communicate effectively, delegate tasks responsibly, and remain open to feedback from your team members.
Determined to reach their destination before dark, they made the bold decision to head across the rugged terrain, navigating steep slopes and narrow paths with unwavering focus.
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How to Use
Refers to the top part or a leading roleIn everyday usage, this term can function both as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it describes the uppermost part of the human body, the front or top of an object, or a position of leadership—such as the person in charge of a group, organization, or department. For example, “He was appointed to head the committee,” uses the verb form, indicating leadership. Meanwhile, “She injured her head,” shows its noun form, referencing a body part. It can also appear in idiomatic expressions like “head over heels,” meaning completely in love, or “bite someone’s head off,” meaning to speak harshly. Consider whether you mean a physical part, a leadership position, or an idiomatic usage, and choose your context accordingly. This term’s flexibility allows it to fit naturally into numerous contexts, making it a staple in both formal and informal communication.
Alternatives
There are numerous alternatives that serve similar purposes depending on your context. For a physical, anatomical reference, you might consider words like “crown” or “skull,” though these carry more specific or technical connotations. When referring to a leadership role, terms like “leader,” “chief,” “chairperson,” “director,” or “boss” can capture the sense of authority. In more metaphorical contexts, you might use “forefront” or “helm” to evoke an image of guidance or control. For instance, “She took the helm of the new startup” effectively communicates the idea of taking charge. If you’re describing the front of an object, “front end” or “leading edge” may be appropriate. By choosing the right alternative, you tailor your language to the situation’s exact needs, ensuring clarity, nuance, and the proper level of formality.
Writing
When writing, be clear about which sense you intend: a physical topmost part or a role of leadership. If you’re discussing the upper part of an individual’s body or an object, maintain a direct description, like “the top of the page” or “the leading section.” However, if you’re emphasizing governance or command, use phrases like “take charge,” “lead the team,” or “direct operations.” Varying your word choice can enhance readability, preventing redundancy and adding depth. Also consider idiomatic uses of the term—like “keep your head in the game” (stay focused)—in more informal or creative contexts. Choose your wording based on audience and tone; in formal writing, keep references precise and neutral, while in creative or casual work, you can explore more figurative expressions for impact and engagement.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, this word appears in countless everyday expressions, whether you’re talking about banging it on a low doorway, or highlighting someone’s leadership, as in “She’s the one heading the project.” People also use idioms like “use your head” (think carefully), “heads up” (pay attention), or “head out” (leave). All these phrases emphasize its versatility and constant presence in everyday speech. Feel free to experiment with playful idiomatic usage when chatting with friends. Just remember to keep context in mind—if someone’s not familiar with the expression, they might not catch your meaning. Nonetheless, this term helps convey everything from everyday mishaps to major leadership responsibilities in an easy, relatable manner.
Etymology
Tracing back to Old English “hēafod,” this term’s Germanic roots place it alongside similar words in other languages, all denoting the top or front portion of something. Over time, it expanded in English to describe not just the physical top of the human body, but also the idea of leadership or direction—symbolizing the forefront of action. In many cultural contexts, the top of the body was viewed as home to intelligence or the seat of authority, which helped shape its metaphorical usage. Throughout centuries, it gained idiomatic significance, featuring prominently in phrases and proverbs. Its ability to refer simultaneously to a physical body part and a position of command underscores the word’s longstanding place in everyday communication and its deep-rooted cultural importance.
