Meaning of Word
A supervisor is a person who oversees and directs the work of others, typically in a workplace or organizational setting. They are responsible for managing tasks, ensuring the quality of work, and guiding or assisting employees in performing their duties.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A person in charge of overseeing the work and activities of others, especially in a workplace or department.
- An individual responsible for ensuring the proper execution of tasks or operations within a team or organization.
- A managerial position focused on the direction, oversight, and support of employees, projects, or processes.
- A role that typically involves providing instructions, guidance, and feedback to subordinates to ensure efficiency and quality.
History and Origin
The word supervisor originates from the Latin supervidere, meaning “to look over” or “to oversee.” The term entered the English language in the mid-19th century and became associated with managerial or overseeing roles within organizations. It evolved to describe those who supervise employees or operations, a role integral to most workplaces.
Detailed Explanation
A supervisor is someone who holds a position of authority and responsibility within an organization, typically in charge of a specific team, department, or set of tasks. They monitor employees to ensure that work is being completed correctly, on time, and in accordance with company policies or standards. Supervisors are also responsible for providing guidance, training, and support to help employees improve their performance. Their role can vary depending on the industry and the level of authority they have, but their key functions generally include overseeing operations, handling performance issues, and making sure that team goals are met.
Example Sentences
- The supervisor checked the progress of the project and offered feedback.
- As a supervisor, she was responsible for delegating tasks to her team.
- The employees had to report to their supervisor every morning for task assignments.
- The supervisor ensured that all safety protocols were followed on the job site.
- He was promoted to supervisor after demonstrating excellent leadership skills.
- The supervisor gave a motivational speech to encourage the team to meet their targets.
- She worked closely with the supervisor to resolve any workplace issues.
- The supervisor handled complaints and ensured that customer service standards were met.
- The team leader acted as the supervisor during the absence of the manager.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Manager – A person who is in charge of overseeing operations, often at a higher level than a supervisor.
- Leader – A person who leads or directs a group, often used in the context of providing guidance and direction.
- Foreman – A person in charge of a group of workers, especially in construction or manufacturing.
- Overseer – A person who supervises work or operations, ensuring tasks are completed effectively.
- Coordinator – A person who organizes and directs activities, often involved in managing teams or projects.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Authority – The power or right to give orders and enforce obedience, often associated with the role of a supervisor.
- Team Leader – A person who leads a specific group within an organization, often a more informal role than a supervisor.
- Guidance – The act of directing or advising, often provided by a supervisor to employees.
- Delegation – The assignment of tasks or responsibilities, which is a key duty of a supervisor.
- Performance Review – A process where a supervisor evaluates and provides feedback on an employee’s work performance.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Managerial – Related to the responsibilities of overseeing and managing others, often associated with supervisors.
- Controller – A person responsible for overseeing financial operations, sometimes used in supervisory contexts.
- Inspector – A person who inspects or monitors work or operations, which can be part of a supervisor’s duties.
- Trainer – A person who teaches or trains employees, often in conjunction with a supervisor’s role.
- Advisor – A person who provides advice and guidance, often in a supervisory capacity.
Antonyms
- Employee – A person who works for an organization, generally under the direction of a supervisor.
- Subordinate – A person who is lower in rank or position, usually working under the supervision of someone else.
- Worker – A person who performs tasks or duties, typically managed or overseen by a supervisor.
- Follower – Someone who follows instructions or orders, often under the supervision of a leader or supervisor.
- Underling – A person who holds a lower rank and works under the supervision of someone in authority.