supervisor

/ˌsuːpərˈvaɪzər/
nounIntermediate
💼Business
formal

A person who oversees the work of others, typically in a workplace setting, ensuring tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.

The supervisor reviewed the team's progress before the weekly meeting.

The manager checked the team's work before the meeting.

💡

In some organizations, 'supervisor' may be a formal job title, while in others, it may refer to anyone with oversight responsibilities.

Collocations

direct supervisorthe person who directly oversees an employee's worksupervisor trainingtraining for individuals who will oversee otherssupervisor dutiesthe responsibilities of a supervisor

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

superviseverb
to oversee or direct the work of others
supervisionnoun
the act of overseeing or directing work

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Usage

In some workplaces, 'supervisor' is a formal title, while in others, it may be used informally to describe anyone with oversight responsibilities.

Gold Rule

Professional Context

Use 'supervisor' in professional or workplace settings. Avoid using it in casual or non-work contexts.

📖Word Origin

From Middle French 'superviseur', from Latin 'supervisus', past participle of 'supervidere' (to oversee), from 'super-' (over) + 'videre' (to see).

📝Usage Notes

The term 'supervisor' is often used in formal workplace contexts. In some industries, it may be synonymous with 'manager', while in others, it may refer to a lower-level oversight role.

Word Breakdown

super-
over, above
prefix
+
-visor
one who sees or oversees
suffix
English Dictionary