drum-major
Definition
Noun: A "drum-major" is the leader of a marching band, especially one who directs the drum section and often carries a baton or mace to signal commands.
Usage Examples
- (The leader directed the band's movements and tempo.)
- (She was chosen to lead the drummers.)
- (His attire emphasized his leadership role.)
Advanced Usage
- "to act as drum-major": to serve as the primary leader or figurehead of a group.
- In the community project, she acted as drum-major, coordinating volunteers and keeping morale high. (She took on a central, directing role.)
Variants and Related Words
- Drum-majorette (n): a female drum-major, though the term is less common today.
- The drum-majorette twirled her baton with impressive skill. (A female leader of a marching band.)
- Drum major (n): an alternative spelling without the hyphen, meaning the same thing.
- The drum major gave the signal for the band to start playing. (The band leader.)
Synonyms
- Band leader: the person who directs a musical band.
- Marching band director: a more formal title for the person in charge of a marching band.
Related Idioms
- "Follow the drum-major": to obey or follow the lead of a central authority figure.
- In the chaotic meeting, everyone agreed to follow the drum-major and adopt his plan. (To follow the main leader's direction.)
Notes
- The term "drum-major" is primarily used in the context of military or ceremonial marching bands. It emphasizes the role of directing the rhythm and pace of the group.