noun

headteacher

principal

The headteacher gave a speech at the assembly.

The principal gave a speech at the assembly.

((a headteacher)) the teacher in charge of a school (UK term) The headteacher is new this year.

Synonyms: principal, headmaster, headmistress

A compound of 'head' (leader, chief) and 'teacher'. The main teacher in charge of a school. In the US, 'principal' is more common.

Think of the 'head' or leader of all the teachers in a school. This is a common term in British English.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.