Word: Headmaster

Pronunciation

/ˈhedmeɪstər/

Definitions

• Noun: The principal administrative official in charge of a school, usually a private or preparatory school, who also often teaches classes, especially in a British context.

Definitions in Detail

1. Educational Leader: A person who has overall responsibility for the running of a school, including managing staff, setting educational standards, and overseeing students’ discipline.
   • Example Sentence: “The new headmaster brought about significant improvements in the school’s academic performance.”

2- Institutional Authority Figure: An individual with authority over both teaching staff and students, traditionally addressed as “Headmaster” or “Headmistress” depending on gender.

• Example Sentence: “The headmaster delivered a stirring speech during the opening assembly.”

Phrases

• “Meet with the headmaster” – This implies having a formal conversation or appointment with the school’s principal.
• “Called to the headmaster’s office” – Often used when a student is summoned for disciplinary reasons or a discussion regarding their academic progress.
• “Under the headmaster’s watch” – Refers to activities or changes occurring within the school during the tenure of a specific headmaster.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “As a former teacher, Mr. Thompson was appointed as the headmaster of the prestigious St. George’s Academy.”
• “When caught cheating on the exam, Tom was immediately sent to see the headmaster.”

Synonyms

• Principal (American English)
• School Principal
• Rector (in some European schools)
• Headteacher (British English)
• Director (in some international schools)