vice-chair
Meaning
a person who assists a chairperson and is authorized to act in their absence
a deputy to a chairperson, often having specific responsibilities
Structure
Usage
She was elected vice-chair of the committee last year.
In the absence of the chairperson, the vice-chair will run the meeting.
His role as vice-chair involves overseeing the fundraising subcommittee.
Etymology
The term 'vice-chair' is a compound formed in English from two distinct elements. The prefix 'vice-' originates from Latin vicis, meaning "a change, turn, or office," and evolved to denote a person who acts in the place of another. The noun 'chair' derives from the Latin cathedra, via Old French, signifying a seat of authority, which by metonymy came to mean the person presiding. Thus, the compound logically constructs the meaning of a deputy who assumes the authority and responsibilities of the chairperson when required.
Analysis
- vice: from Latin vicis (change, alternation, stead), functioning as a prefix meaning "in place of" or "deputy". - chair: from Old French chaiere, from Latin cathedra (seat, chair of authority), functioning as the base noun meaning "the presiding officer or seat of authority".