leadership

[ lee-der-ship ]

noun

1. the position or function of a leader, a person who guides or directs a group:

   He managed to maintain his leadership of the party despite heavy opposition.

   Synonyms: stewardship, directorship, hegemony, governorship, control, management, administration

2. ability to lead:

   As early as sixth grade she displayed remarkable leadership potential.

   Synonyms: effectiveness, authoritativeness, clout, sway, command, influence

3. an act or instance of leading; guidance; direction:

   They prospered under his strong leadership.

4. the leaders of a group:

   The union leadership agreed to arbitrate.

leadership

/ ˈliːdəʃɪp /

noun

1. the position or function of a leader
2. the period during which a person occupies the position of leader

   during her leadership very little was achieved

3. 1. the ability to lead
   2. ( as modifier )

      leadership qualities

4. the leaders as a group of a party, union, etc

   the union leadership is now very reactionary

Word History and Origins

Origin of leadership¹

First recorded in 1815–25; leader + -ship

Example Sentences

Challenged on why a numerical cap would work under her leadership when past attempts have not, she said past leaders "thought stating a number was enough" and "hoped things would work out".

From BBC

“John’s intelligence and leadership are unmatched. John holds an MBA from the Harvard Business School, and is a truly brilliant guy!”

From Salon

The organisation has faced significant challenges, including an inability to convene its leadership since the killing of Yahya Sinwar by Israel.

From BBC

He took on leadership roles as a mentor to younger students, an officer in the honor society and a campus ambassador to promote higher education.

From Los Angeles Times

The Democratic Party and its leadership need to recalibrate and engage in some critical self-reflection.

From Salon

Related Words

• captaincy
• captainship
• care
• coaching
• direction
• encouragement
• guardianship
• guidance
• initiative
• lead
• navigation
• overseeing
• pilotage
• piloting
• shepherding
• steering
• stewardship
• superintendence
• superintendency
• supervision