lieu·ten·ant
 lieutenant
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- pronunciation:
- lu
te
n
nt
- features:
- Word History, Word Explorer, Word Parts
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition: |
Lieutenant is a rank in a military force. It is an officer's rank just below captain. A person who holds this rank is also called a lieutenant.
The new lieutenant reported to the captain. |
| related words: |
deputy |
Lieutenant entered the English language in 1378. It comes from an early French word meaning "one who holds the place of another." Originally, a lieutenant was someone who could be called on to substitute for the king or officer he served.