επικεφαλής
Wordform Details
Translation: headleaderchiefin charge
Part of Speech: noun/adjective
Inflection Type:
indeclinableIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: επικεφαλής
Translation: at the head; in charge; leading; head; chief; leader (adjective)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐπί (epí, 'on, upon') + κεφαλή (kephalḗ, 'head'). The term literally means 'on the head' or 'at the head', which evolved to signify leadership or being in charge. The root 'κεφαλή' is cognate with English 'cephalic' (relating to the head) and appears in English terms like 'encephalitis' (inflammation of the brain).
Example Usage
Είναι επικεφαλής του τμήματος.
He/she is head of the department.
Ο επικεφαλής της αποστολής έδωσε τις οδηγίες.
The head of the mission gave the instructions.
Ο Γιώργος είναι επικεφαλής της ομάδας.
George is the head of the team.
Ποιος είναι επικεφαλής του έργου;
Who is in charge of the project?
Η επιτροπή με επικεφαλής τον πρόεδρο συνεδρίασε χθες.
The committee, headed by the president, met yesterday.
Mnemonics
- Think 'epi' (upon) + 'cephalic' (head-related) = 'the one upon the head' or the leader.
- Remember 'επικεφαλής' sounds like 'epic head' - the person at the head is often responsible for epic decisions.
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frequently used in political, military, and organizational contexts to denote leadership positions. In Greek culture, the concept of leadership is important, and this term carries connotations of authority and responsibility.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'επικεφαλής' means 'at the head' or 'in charge', 'κεφαλή' simply means 'head' (the body part).
Notes: 'επικεφαλής' is indeclinable and can function as both an adjective and a noun, while 'κεφαλή' is a regular noun with full declension.
Mnemonic: 'επικεφαλής' has 'επι' (upon) + 'κεφαλή' (head), meaning the person positioned above others.