Lead

Definition

Lead is a word with multiple meanings and functions as a verb, noun, and adjective. As a verb, it means to guide, direct, or be in charge. As a noun, it refers to a position at the forefront or a heavy, dense metal with the symbol Pb. As an adjective, it describes something principal or foremost.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (Verb/Noun - guidance): /liːd/
• Respelling: LEED
• IPA Pronunciation (Noun - metal): /lɛd/
• Respelling: LED

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (Verb/Noun - guidance): /liːd/
• Respelling: LEED
• IPA Pronunciation (Noun - metal): /lɛd/
• Respelling: LED

Etymology

The word "lead" comes from Old English "lædan" (verb), meaning "to guide" or "bring forth," and "lead" (noun), referring to the metallic element. The noun originates from Proto-Germanic "*lauda," while the verb has connections to Proto-Indo-European roots meaning "to travel" or "follow."

Derivatives

• Leader (noun)
• Leadership (noun)
• Leading (adjective/verb)
• Leaded (adjective)
• Unleaded (adjective)

Synonyms

• Guide (verb)
• Forefront (noun)
• Principal (adjective)

Antonyms

• Follow (verb)
• Follower (noun)
• Secondary (adjective)

Usage

The term "lead" is versatile, used in various contexts. For example, "She will lead the team to success," or "The pipe is made of lead," or "He played the lead role in the play."

Related Terms

• Direction: The act of managing or guiding.
• Guidance: Advice or direction provided to achieve a goal.
• Principal: The foremost or most important aspect.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To guide or direct someone or something: Refers to taking charge or being in control.
  • Example: "The manager will lead the project to completion."
• To show the way: Describes the act of going ahead to direct others.
  • Example: "He led the tourists through the museum."

Noun

• A position at the forefront: Refers to being in the most important or influential position.
  • Example: "She took the lead in organizing the event."
• A dense metallic element (Pb): Describes a soft, heavy metal used in batteries and shielding.
  • Example: "The roof was lined with sheets of lead."

Adjective

• Principal or foremost: Describes something most important or significant.
  • Example: "He played the lead role in the movie."