take-charge

1 of 2

adjective

ˈtāk-ˈchärj 

: having the qualities of a forceful leader

a take-charge executive

take charge

2 of 2

idiomatic phrase

: to assume control, command, care, or custody

… the people Americans have chosen to take charge in times of crisis …

—Marc Fisher

—often used with of

She took charge of the company/team/project.

A neighbor took charge of the children until he got home from the emergency room.

Happiness is what occurs when you take charge of your life …

—Terina Allen

Samuel Morse wanted the federal government to take charge of building a national telegraph system.

—Virginia Postrel

I could see that unless I took charge of the situation nothing would get done. So I said, "Mouse, you and Jane … help me … ."

—Judy Blume

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1950, in the meaning defined above

Idiomatic Phrase

14th century, in the meaning defined above