Definition

Noun 1. The officer second in command: A person in a military, naval, or organizational structure who is directly subordinate to the commanding officer. This officer is typically responsible for the administration, discipline, and internal management of the unit, ensuring the commander's orders are carried out.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The executive officer handled the daily operations of the ship while the captain focused on strategic decisions.
  • As the battalion's executive officer, her primary duty was to manage personnel and logistics.
  • The commander delegated the inspection to his trusted executive officer.

Advanced Usage

• "To serve as executive officer": To hold the position of the second-in-command.
  • She served as executive officer for two years before taking her own command.

Variants and Related Words

• XO (n): A common abbreviation for "executive officer," frequently used in military contexts.
  • All reports should be submitted to the XO by 0800 hours.

Synonyms

• Second-in-command: The person next in authority to the leader.
• Deputy: A person appointed as a substitute with power to act.
• Number two: (Informal) The person who is second in rank or authority.

Related Phrases

• Acting executive officer: An officer temporarily performing the duties of the executive officer.
  • While the XO was on leave, the senior lieutenant became the acting executive officer.

Noun

1. the officer second in command