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boss
/bɒs/
person in charge
The new boss introduced herself to the team.
The person in charge of the team introduced herself.
formalinformal
A person who is in charge of a group, organization, or workplace.
The boss gave us new instructions for the project.
The person in charge provided new instructions for the project.
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the relationship between the speaker and the boss.
informalslang
A person who is highly skilled or dominant in a particular area.
He's the boss at playing chess; no one can beat him.
He is the most skilled person at playing chess; no one can defeat him.
Used informally to describe someone who excels in a specific activity or skill.
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Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
Use 'boss' informally with colleagues you are familiar with, but opt for 'manager' or 'supervisor' in formal settings.
Gold Rule
Respect Hierarchy
Always address your boss with respect, regardless of the context.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'bosse,' meaning 'swelling' or 'boss,' originally referring to a protuberance or knob, later extended to mean a person in charge.
Usage Notes
The term 'boss' is commonly used in both professional and informal settings. It can refer to a supervisor at work or someone who is highly skilled in a particular area.
Word Breakdown
boss
a person in charge
rootEnglish Dictionary