conductor
n.-
1 music leader (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Musicthe person who stands in front of an orchestra or choir and directs how they play or sing.
the director of an orchestra, choir, or other musical ensemble who coordinates the performance through visible gestures.
ExampleThe conductor raised her baton, and the entire orchestra became silent.
ExampleThe guest conductor was praised for his nuanced interpretation of the symphony, particularly his control over the woodwind section during the second movement.
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2 transport official (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea person on a train, bus, or tram who checks tickets and helps passengers.
a transit employee responsible for collecting fares, verifying tickets, and ensuring passenger safety.
ExampleThe conductor walked through the train cars to check everyone's tickets.
ExampleThe conductor informed the passengers that the delay was due to a signalling fault and offered assistance with connecting travel arrangements.
- ticket inspector
- guard
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3 science/energy (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Sciencea material that allows heat or electricity to flow through it easily.
a substance or medium that conducts heat, light, sound, or especially an electric current.
ExampleCopper is a very good conductor of electricity, which is why it is used in wires.
ExampleSilver is the most effective thermal conductor among metals, though its high cost usually precludes its use in industrial heat exchangers.
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4 a guide or leader (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Literarya person who leads or guides others.
one who leads, guides, or directs the course of others; a person in a position of leadership.
ExampleHe acted as the conductor of the project, making sure everyone stayed on task.
ExampleHistory remembers her as a primary conductor of the movement, orchestrating the various factions into a single, cohesive political force.
Borrowed from Middle French conductour, from Old French conduitor, from Latin conductor.