leadership

noun

lead·​er·​ship ˈlē-dər-ˌship 

1

: the office or position of a leader

recently assumed the leadership of the company

2

: capacity to lead

a politician who lacks leadership

3

: the act or an instance of leading

… leadership molds individuals into a team …

—Harold Koontz and Cyril O'Donnell

4

: leaders

the party leadership

Examples of leadership in a Sentence

a politician who lacks leadership

What this country needs is the exercise of strong leadership!

Recent Examples on the Web

After more than four decades under the same president, questions about his leadership have only grown. — Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2026

Phuel founder and long-time CEO Garret Rock downplayed his current involvement in the company this week and declined to provide information on its current leadership. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 14 Aug. 2026

But as Airbnb grew into the $110 billion giant it’s known as today, Chesky has evolved his leadership style, delegating more and trusting his team to carry his ideas to the finish line. — Sarah Glodek, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026

Hoshi brings over two decades of leadership experience and deep familiarity with eClerx’s culture, clients and operating model. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing leadership

• under someone's leadership

Rhymes for leadership

• authorship
• battleship
• censorship
• chairmanship
• chieftainship
• comradeship
• consulship
• craftsmanship
• dealership
• draftsmanship
• fellowship
• fingertip