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Headmaster - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A headmaster is the senior teacher and leader of a school, responsible for managing staff, overseeing students, and ensuring the school runs smoothly. The term is commonly used in British English.

headmaster

/ˈhɛdˌmæstɚ/ /ˈhɛdˌmɑːstə/

Definition:

The male principal of a school, especially a private one.

Synonyms:

principal, headteacher, schoolmaster

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

student, pupil

Common Collocations:

strict headmaster, respected headmaster, former headmaster

Derivatives:

headmastership, headmistress

Usage Tips:

Use "headmaster" for male principals; "headmistress" for female ones, especially in British contexts.

Common Phrases:

meet the headmaster, report to the headmaster, under the headmaster's rule

Etymology:

From "head" (chief) + "master" (teacher), originating in the 16th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The headmaster announced a new school policy yesterday.
  • 2. Our headmaster is very strict but fair.
  • 3. The students gathered in the hall to hear the headmaster speak.
  • 4. She was called to the headmaster's office for misbehaving.

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