Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who is next in authority to the commander or leader: The "second-in-command" is the deputy who assumes the commander's duties in their absence and is the primary assistant.
   • The principal deputy or subordinate leader: This term denotes the individual who is ranked immediately below the person in charge of an organization, military unit, ship, or operation.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The general's second-in-command took control of the troops when the general was called away.
  • As the company's second-in-command, she is responsible for all daily operations when the CEO is traveling.

Advanced Usage

• "to serve as second-in-command": to hold the position of deputy leader.
  • He served as second-in-command for five years before being promoted to captain.
• "the second-in-command of [an organization/unit]": specifying the domain of authority.
  • She is the second-in-command of the research division.

Variants and Related Words

• Deputy (n): A person appointed as a substitute with power to act.
• Vice- (prefix): Used in titles to denote an officer ranking next below the officer specified (e.g., vice-president).
• Lieutenant (n): A deputy or substitute acting for a superior; often a specific military or police rank.
• Number Two (n, informal): A common informal synonym for second-in-command.

Synonyms

• Deputy
• Lieutenant
• Subordinate leader
• Right-hand man/woman/person

Related Phrases

• Next in line: The person who is next in order of succession.
• Assume command: To take over authority or leadership.

Related Idioms

• Right-hand man: A chief assistant, indispensable helper, or second-in-command.
  • The manager relies heavily on her right-hand man to handle logistics.

Noun

1. someone who relieves a commander