Pronunciation

/ˈmeɪdʒər/

Definitions

• Noun: (n) A rank above captain and below lieutenant colonel in the army, air force, or marine corps; a high-level division in a subject of study, especially at a university; a person who has achieved a first or higher degree in a specified subject. For example: “She was promoted to the rank of major in the military.” “He majored in economics at college.”

  • Also, can refer to something that is greater in importance, size, or extent: “The major issue in the debate was climate change.”

• Adjective: (adj) Greater in importance, size, or degree; principal or main. For example: “The major part of his income comes from investments.”

  • In academic contexts, it refers to a subject field in which one specializes: “She’s a history major.”

Phrases

• “Major in”: To choose a particular subject as the main area of study in college or university. Example: “She decided to major in computer science.”
• “Play a major role”: To have a significant influence or impact on something. Example: “Exercise plays a major role in maintaining good health.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “His decision to join the majors marked a turning point in his baseball career.”
• Adjective: “The company announced a major restructuring plan to improve its financial performance.”

Synonyms

• (as a Noun): Captain, Head, Leader, Principal
• (as an Adjective): Chief, Primary, Principal, Key, Main, Leading

Additional meanings

• Verb: (v) [US, informal] To declare a specific subject as one’s major field of study in college or university. Example: “After taking several courses, she decided to major in psychology.”

• Adjective: (adj) Of legal majority, i.e., being of full age or adulthood. Example: “Upon reaching the age of 18, he became a legal major.”

Please note that depending on context, “major” can also be used in compound forms such as “majority” (the greater number or part), “major league” (referring to professional sports leagues), and so forth.