take-charge

1 of 2

adjective

: 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 AllenSamuel Morse wanted the federal government to take charge of building a national telegraph system.Virginia PostrelI 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

Time Traveler
The first known use of take-charge was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near take-charge

Cite this Entry

“Take-charge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take-charge. Accessed 29 Mar. 2023.

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