chairman

Everyday

1. A person who leads a meeting or a committee and keeps order, deciding who speaks. tree →
2. The person in charge of the board of a company, club or organisation. tree →

In the lessons

In school councils and clubs, the chair runs the meeting, sticks to the agenda and lets everyone speak. In stories, the chairman bangs a hammer called a gavel and calls «Order, order!». Today many people say «chair» or «chairperson» so it fits anyone. In The Wind in the Willows, Badger acts as leader when the friends meet to plan.

Examples

• The chairman asked everyone to sit down. tree →
• Our class chose Priya as chair of the school council. tree →
• The chairman of the football club gave a speech. tree →
• «Order, please!» said the chairman. tree →
• The chairwoman thanked everyone for coming. tree →
• The chairman counted the votes for each idea. tree →

Note

Plural chairmen. Neutral words: chair, chairperson. Do not confuse with a chair (furniture) — although «chair» is also used for the person.