# captaincy

/kˈæptɪnsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/captaincy
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the position of being in charge of a ship, a sports team, or a group of people. It involves making important decisions and leading others.

For teachers: the position or state of being in command of a vessel, a sports team, or a military unit. Often implies a formal title or a specific set of leadership responsibilities.

## Examples

- The captaincy of the ship is a great honor.
- She took the captaincy of the local cricket team after the previous leader retired.
- The transition to the captaincy of the vessel required not only technical skill but also the ability to maintain morale during a long and difficult voyage.

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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.