# bosses

/ˈbɔsɪz/ (US) · /bˈɒsɪz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bosses
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 3. decorative studs

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

raised, round decorations on a shield or a ceiling.

For teachers: plural of the technical noun referring to a protuberant ornament or knob on the surface of an object, such as a shield or a vaulting rib.

- The old wooden door was covered in heavy iron bosses for protection.
- The medieval shield featured a central bronze boss designed to deflect heavy blows during close-quarters combat.

## Examples

- The bosses are meeting to discuss the new office rules.
- After the company merger, the new bosses decided to change the working hours for all employees.
- While the department heads manage daily tasks, the ultimate decision regarding the budget rests with the bosses in the executive suite.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.