VocabDictionary

The Boss

/ðə bɒs/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person in charge of an organization, department, or group of workers; an employer or supervisor.

Example Sentences:
  • I need to ask the boss for time off next week.
  • She has been the boss of the marketing department for five years.
2.idiom

A humorous or affectionate term used to refer to one's spouse or partner, implying they hold the final decision-making power in the household.

Example Sentences:
  • I'd love to go fishing, but I have to check with the boss first.
  • He always jokes that his wife is the boss at home.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “The Boss”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Dutch word 'baas', meaning 'master'. It entered American English in the early 19th century, initially used to describe an employer or overseer, and eventually evolved into a colloquial term for anyone in a position of authority or, humorously, a partner in a relationship.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'BAAS' (boss) who is 'B'old, 'A'uthoritative, 'A'nd 'S'uperior.

Frequently Asked Questions About “The Boss

1. What is the meaning of “The Boss” in English?

In English, The Boss (noun) is defined as: “A person in charge of an organization, department, or group of workers; an employer or supervisor.”.

2. How do you use “The Boss” in a sentence?

I need to ask the boss for time off next week.

3. What are English synonyms of “The Boss”?

Common synonyms include:supervisor,manager,employer,chief,superior

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “The Boss”?

Derived from the Dutch word 'baas', meaning 'master'. It entered American English in the early 19th century, initially used to describe an employer or overseer, and eventually evolved into a colloquial term for anyone in a position of authority or, humorously, a partner in a relationship.