captain

a person who is at the head of or in authority over others; chief; leader.

an officer ranking in most armies above a first lieutenant and below a major.

an officer in the U.S. Navy ranking above a commander and below a rear admiral or a commodore.

a military leader.

an officer in the police department, ranking above a lieutenant and usually below an inspector.

an officer of the fire department, usually in command of a company, ranking above a lieutenant and below a chief or assistant chief.

the commander of a merchant vessel. Compare staff captain.

the pilot of an airplane.

a local official in a political party responsible for organizing votes on a ward or precinct level.

Sports. the field leader of a team:

a person of great power and influence, especially based on economic wealth.

headwaiter.

bell captain.

South Midland and Southern U.S. an unofficial title of respect for a man (sometimes used humorously or ironically).

to lead or command as a captain.