Director

Definition

Director refers to a person who leads, manages, or oversees a particular activity, organization, or department. In various contexts, a director may be responsible for guiding a company, producing films or theater, or heading specific projects within an organization.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dəˈrɛktər/, /daɪˈrɛktər/
• Respelling: dih-REK-tur or dy-REK-tur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈrɛktə/, /daɪˈrɛktə/
• Respelling: dih-REK-tuh or dy-REK-tuh

Etymology

The word "director" originates from the Latin "dirigere," meaning "to guide" or "to set straight." It was adopted into Middle French as "directeur" before entering English in the 15th century, maintaining the meaning of someone who guides or oversees.

Derivatives

• Direct (verb)
• Directive (noun)
• Direction (noun)
• Directorial (adjective)
• Directorship (noun)

Synonyms

• Manager
• Supervisor
• Leader

Antonyms

• Subordinate
• Assistant
• Follower

Usage

The noun "director" is commonly used to refer to someone who holds an authoritative or managerial role. For example, "She was appointed as the director of the company." In the entertainment industry, it refers specifically to individuals who lead the creative process of films, theater, or television productions.

Related Terms

• Executive: A high-ranking individual in charge of decision-making within an organization.
• Producer: Someone who manages and finances production, especially in film and theater.
• Administrator: An individual responsible for the operation and management of an organization or department.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person in charge of overseeing an organization or department: Refers to an executive role where an individual manages operations and strategic goals.
  • Example: "The board appointed a new director to lead the marketing team."
• A person who guides the creative process of a film, play, or television production: In the arts, a director is responsible for making artistic decisions and guiding the cast and crew.
  • Example: "The film director received an award for his innovative approach."