VocabDictionary

chairperson

/ˈtʃɛərˌpɜːrsən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The presiding officer of a meeting, committee, board of directors, or organization.

Example Sentences:
  • The chairperson called the meeting to order at exactly nine o'clock.
  • She was unanimously elected chairperson of the steering committee.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “chairperson”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Formed as a gender-neutral alternative to 'chairman' or 'chairwoman', combining 'chair' (referring to the seat of authority or the office of the presiding officer, dating back to the 14th century) and 'person' (derived from Latin 'persona', meaning an actor's mask or character, later generalized to mean human being). The term gained widespread prominence in the latter half of the 20th century with the rise of gender-inclusive language.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who 'person's the 'chair' during a meeting.

Frequently Asked Questions About “chairperson

1. What is the meaning of “chairperson” in English?

In English, chairperson (noun) is defined as: “The presiding officer of a meeting, committee, board of directors, or organization.”.

2. How do you use “chairperson” in a sentence?

The chairperson called the meeting to order at exactly nine o'clock.

3. What are English synonyms of “chairperson”?

Common synonyms include:chairman,chair,convenor,moderator,president

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “chairperson”?

Formed as a gender-neutral alternative to 'chairman' or 'chairwoman', combining 'chair' (referring to the seat of authority or the office of the presiding officer, dating back to the 14th century) and 'person' (derived from Latin 'persona', meaning an actor's mask or character, later generalized to mean human being). The term gained widespread prominence in the latter half of the 20th century with the rise of gender-inclusive language.