Chieftain
/ˈtʃiːf.teɪn/noun
A leader of a group or clan, especially in a tribal society.
Did you know?The term 'chieftain' not only signifies leadership but also embodies the essence of authority and protection, deeply rooted in the warrior culture of early societies.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʰei̯bʰ-
“to take, to grasp, to receive.”
Latin
Latin
caput
“head, leader, or chief.”
Old French
Old French
chief
“head, leader, or principal part.”
Middle English
Middle English
chieftain
“a leader or head of a group, especially a clan.”
Modern English
English
chieftain
“a title for a leader of a clan or tribe, emphasizing nobility and authority.”