lead

lead · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Show the way by going in front; guide.

  2. 2.

    Be in charge of; direct the actions or opinions of.

  3. 3.

    Be ahead of others in a race or competition.

  4. 4.

    Cause someone to act or think in a particular way.

  5. 5.

    Have a particular type of life.

  6. 6.

    A position of advantage in a race or competition.

  7. 7.

    The most important role or position.

  8. 8.

    A piece of information that may help solve a problem.

  9. 9.

    A leash for a dog.

  10. 10.

    A soft, heavy, toxic metallic element (chemical symbol Pb).

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    lead the way — Go first; show others how.
  • •
    lead by example — Inspire others through one's own actions.
  • •
    lead someone on — Deceive someone about one's intentions.
  • •
    lead up to — Precede; result in.
  • •
    take the lead — Take the front position or initiative.
  • •
    lead astray — Cause to make mistakes or behave badly.
  • •
    lead a double life — Have two separate identities or lives.

Related words

Antonyms: follow, trail
See also: follow, guide, leader, leading, led
Synonyms: conduct, direct, guide, head

Etymology

The verb is from Old English lædan ("to guide, conduct"), from Proto-Germanic laidijaną. The noun (metal) is from Old English lēad, from Proto-Germanic laudą, possibly of Celtic origin.