captains

word · lemma: captain

/ˈkæptənz/
KAP-tuhnz
/kˈæptɪnz/
KAP-tinz

Definition

'Captains' is the plural of 'captain', meaning leaders or persons in charge of a ship, sports team, aircraft, or group.

Usage & Nuances

Used mainly for leaders of ships, sports teams, planes, or people in charge. Common expressions: 'team captains', 'ship captains', 'airline captains'. Formal in professional contexts; in sports, often more casual. Not used for military ranks above colonel; that's 'general' or 'admiral'.

Example Sentences

The captains met before the soccer match.

basic

There are two captains on the ship today.

basic

The captains discussed strategy in the locker room before the big game.

natural

Both basketball teams have strong captains.

basic

On long flights, sometimes the two captains take turns flying the plane.

natural

Both captains inspired their teams with powerful speeches before the match.

natural