staff

word

/ˈstæf/
staf
/stˈɑːf/
stahf

Definition

The people who work for an organization, business, school, or other place. It usually refers to workers as a group rather than one person.

Usage & Nuances

Usually uncountable when it means workers as a group: 'The staff is/are friendly.' In American English, singular verbs are common; in British English, singular or plural verbs are both used. Common collocations: 'staff meeting', 'staff room', 'staff member', 'short-staffed'.

Example Sentences

The hotel staff were very kind to us.

basic

Only staff can enter this room.

basic

The school has a new staff room.

basic

We're a bit short on staff this week, so things may take longer than usual.

natural

I asked a staff member where the bathroom was.

natural

The café is family-run, so the staff all know the regulars by name.

natural