a head, or chief officer-the military officer who commands a company, troop, or battery, or who has the rank entitling him to do so though he may be employed on other service.-an officer in the united states navy, next above a commander and below a commodore, and ranking with a colonel in the army.-by courtesy, an officer actually commanding a vessel, although not having the rank of captain.-the master or commanding officer of a merchant vessel.-one in charge of a portion of a ship's company; as, a captain of a top, captain of a gun, etc.-the foreman of a body of workmen.-a person having authority over others acting in concert; as, the captain of a boat's crew; the captain of a football team.-a military leader; a warrior.-to act as captain of; to lead.-chief; superior.