Top 33 Slang For Director – Meaning & Usage

Directors, the visionaries behind some of our favorite films and TV shows, have their own unique language on set. From “cut” to “action,” these director slangs are like a secret code that only those in the industry truly understand. Join us as we uncover the top slang terms used by directors, giving you an inside look at the world behind the camera. Get ready to brush up on your film lingo and impress your friends with your newfound knowledge of director jargon!

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1. Bossman

This term refers to someone who is in charge or has authority over others. It is often used to describe a director or someone in a position of power.

For example, a team member might say, “I need to check with the bossman before making any decisions.”
In a business setting, someone might introduce the director by saying, “Allow me to introduce our bossman, who oversees all operations.”
A colleague might compliment the director by saying, “The bossman always knows how to motivate the team and get things done.”

2. Head Honcho

This slang term is used to describe someone who holds a high-ranking position, such as a director. It implies that the person is the most important or influential individual in a group or organization.

For instance, a team member might say, “The head honcho just announced a new project.”
In a corporate setting, someone might refer to the director as the head honcho when discussing company decisions or strategies.
A colleague might say, “The head honcho is known for his strong leadership and ability to make tough decisions.”

3. Big Cheese

This slang term is used to describe someone who holds a position of authority, such as a director. It conveys a sense of importance and power within an organization or group.

For example, a team member might say, “The big cheese called a meeting to discuss the upcoming project.”
In a business context, someone might refer to the director as the big cheese when discussing company policies or initiatives.
A colleague might say, “The big cheese has a reputation for being tough but fair.”

4. Top Dog

This slang term is used to describe someone who is the most powerful or influential person in a group or organization, such as a director. It implies that the person is at the top of the hierarchy or pecking order.

For instance, a team member might say, “The top dog made the final decision on the project.”
In a corporate setting, someone might refer to the director as the top dog when discussing major company initiatives or changes.
A colleague might say, “The top dog is respected for his ability to lead and make strategic decisions.”

5. Chief

This slang term is used to refer to someone who holds a high-ranking position, such as a director. It conveys a sense of authority and leadership within an organization or group.

For example, a team member might say, “I need to discuss this with the chief before moving forward.”
In a professional setting, someone might refer to the director as the chief when discussing departmental goals or objectives.
A colleague might say, “The chief is known for his strong vision and ability to inspire the team.”

6. Captain

This term is often used to refer to someone who is in a position of authority or leadership. In the context of a director, it implies that they are the one leading and making decisions.

For example, in a team meeting, someone might say, “Let’s hear what the captain has to say about this.”
When discussing a film production, a crew member might ask, “Who’s the captain of this ship?”
In a business setting, someone might say, “The captain of this company is known for their innovative ideas.”

7. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The CEO is the top executive in a company or organization. They are responsible for making major corporate decisions, managing operations, and representing the company to stakeholders.

For instance, in a board meeting, someone might say, “The CEO will present the new strategic plan.”
When discussing a startup, someone might ask, “Who is the CEO of this company?”
In a news article about a company, it might mention, “The CEO announced record-breaking profits for the fiscal year.”

8. Bigwig

This term is often used to describe someone who holds a high position of authority or influence. In the context of a director, it implies that they are a significant figure in their field.

For example, in an interview, someone might say, “We had a chance to speak with the bigwig of the company.”
When discussing a film industry event, someone might ask, “Are any bigwigs from Hollywood attending?”
In a business article, it might mention, “The bigwig in the tech industry shared their insights on the future of AI.”

9. Headmaster

In the context of a director, this term specifically refers to the person who is in charge of a school or educational institution. They oversee the overall operations and management of the school.

For instance, during a school assembly, a teacher might say, “Please welcome our headmaster to the stage.”
When discussing a prestigious boarding school, someone might ask, “Who is the headmaster of that institution?”
In an article about education, it might mention, “The headmaster implemented innovative teaching methods to improve student performance.”

10. Commander

In the context of a director, this term implies a sense of authority and leadership, similar to a military commander who is responsible for overseeing and directing their unit.

For example, in a war movie, a soldier might say, “We need to follow the commander’s orders.”
When discussing a theater production, someone might ask, “Who is the commander of this play?”
In a business meeting, someone might say, “The commander of this project has extensive experience in the industry.”

11. Principal

In the context of a director, “principal” refers to the person who holds the highest position or authority in an organization or institution. It can also be used to describe someone who is the main or leading figure in a project or production.

For example, in a school, the principal is the director who oversees the entire institution.
In a theater production, the principal director is responsible for the overall vision and execution of the play.
A team might have a principal director who leads the group and makes final decisions.

12. Head

When used as slang for a director, “head” refers to someone who is in charge or has authority over a particular department, organization, or team. It can also be used to describe someone who is the leader or main figure in a specific field or industry.

For instance, a department head is a director who oversees a specific department within an organization.
In the film industry, the head director is responsible for the overall production and creative decisions.
A team might have a head director who leads the group and sets the direction for their work.

13. Lead

In the context of a director, “lead” refers to someone who takes charge or leads a team, project, or organization. It can also be used to describe someone who is the main or primary actor in a film or play.

For example, a lead director is someone who takes the lead in managing a team or project.
In a musical, the lead actor is the main character who carries the story.
A company might have a lead director who is responsible for guiding the organization’s strategy and direction.

14. Chairman

When used as slang for a director, “chairman” refers to someone who holds the highest position or authority in a board of directors or similar governing body. It can also be used to describe someone who is the leader or head of an organization or company.

For instance, the chairman of a company is the top executive who oversees the organization.
In a board meeting, the chairman is the person who presides over the discussions and decisions.
A team might have a chairman who leads the group and represents their interests.

15. President

In the context of a director, “president” refers to someone who holds the highest position or authority in an organization or company. It can also be used to describe someone who is the leader or head of a country, association, or group.

For example, the president of a company is the top executive who sets the direction and strategy.
In a country, the president is the head of state and government.
A team might have a president who leads the group and makes final decisions.

16. Superintendent

A slang term used to refer to a director or someone in a position of authority. It implies that the person is in charge and has the final say in decision-making.

For example, in a workplace setting, a colleague might say, “I need to run this idea by the superintendent before proceeding.”
In a school context, a student might complain, “The superintendent always makes the rules.”
Someone might describe their boss as, “The superintendent is strict but fair.”

17. Manager

A colloquial term for a director or someone who oversees a team or department. It suggests that the person is responsible for managing and guiding others.

For instance, an employee might say, “I need to check with the manager before taking time off.”
In a retail setting, a worker might ask, “Can I speak to the manager about a customer complaint?”
A colleague might mention, “The manager is always busy, but they always find time to help.”

18. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

A slang term for a director who is responsible for managing a company’s finances and making strategic financial decisions. It implies expertise and knowledge in financial matters.

For example, in a business meeting, someone might say, “Let’s get the CFO’s opinion on this financial proposal.”
A colleague might ask, “Can the CFO provide some insight into the company’s financial health?”
Someone might say, “The CFO is the go-to person for any financial questions or concerns.”

19. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

A slang term for a director who is in charge of a company’s technology strategy and oversees the development and implementation of technology solutions. It suggests expertise and knowledge in the field of technology.

For instance, in a tech company, a colleague might say, “The CTO is the mastermind behind our innovative products.”
A team member might ask, “Can the CTO provide guidance on this technical issue?”
Someone might describe the CTO as, “The tech whiz who keeps our company ahead of the curve.”

20. Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

A slang term for a director who is responsible for a company’s marketing strategy and oversees marketing campaigns. It implies expertise and creativity in the field of marketing.

For example, in a marketing meeting, someone might say, “Let’s hear the CMO’s ideas for our next campaign.”
A colleague might ask, “Can the CMO provide insights on consumer behavior?”
Someone might describe the CMO as, “The marketing maven who knows how to captivate audiences.”

21. Big Kahuna

This term refers to someone who holds a position of authority or power, often used to describe a director. It implies that the person is the highest-ranking or most important individual in a particular context.

For example, in a corporate setting, someone might say, “The big kahuna has made a decision, and we need to follow it.”
In a film production, a crew member might comment, “The big kahuna is calling the shots on set today.”
A person discussing leadership might say, “To be a successful director, you need to be the big kahuna and make tough decisions.”

22. Main Man

This slang term refers to someone who is in charge or has authority, often used to describe a director. It suggests that the person is the primary individual responsible for making decisions or leading a team.

For instance, in a business meeting, someone might say, “Let’s hear from the main man on this issue.”
In a theater production, a cast member might ask, “When is our main man arriving to give us direction?”
A person discussing the role of a director might say, “The main man sets the vision and guides the team towards success.”

23. Big Wig

This slang term refers to someone who holds a position of power or authority, often used to describe a director. It suggests that the person is influential and has a significant impact on decisions and outcomes.

For example, in a corporate setting, someone might say, “The big wig is coming to review our project.”
In a film industry context, a crew member might comment, “The big wig producers have final say on the film’s budget.”
A person discussing the hierarchy of a theater company might say, “The big wigs are the ones who decide which shows to produce.”

24. Chief Executive

This term refers to the highest-ranking executive in an organization, often used to describe a director. It implies that the person is responsible for making major decisions and overseeing the overall operations.

For instance, in a business meeting, someone might say, “We need approval from the chief executive before proceeding.”
In a film production, a crew member might ask, “When is the chief executive visiting the set?”
A person discussing corporate leadership might say, “The chief executive sets the strategic direction and vision for the company.”

25. El Capitan

This term, derived from Spanish, refers to a captain or leader, often used to describe a director. It suggests that the person is in command and responsible for guiding and directing others.

For example, in a military context, someone might say, “El Capitan has given us our marching orders.”
In a theater production, a cast member might ask, “When is our El Capitan arriving to provide guidance?”
A person discussing the role of a director might say, “The director acts as the El Capitan, steering the production towards its desired outcome.”

26. Top Hat

This term refers to a director who is in charge and holds a position of authority. It implies that the director is at the top and has control over the team or organization.

For example, “The top hat of the company made the final decision.”
In a discussion about a film production, someone might say, “The top hat oversees all aspects of the movie.”
A business article might mention, “The top hat is responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction.”

27. Chief Cook and Bottle Washer

This slang term refers to a director who is responsible for a wide range of tasks and has to handle various roles and responsibilities. It implies that the director is involved in both high-level decision-making and hands-on work.

For instance, “The chief cook and bottle washer of the small startup had to handle everything from finances to marketing.”
In a discussion about a theater production, someone might say, “The chief cook and bottle washer had to manage the budget and also design the set.”
A colleague might describe their director as, “Our director is a true chief cook and bottle washer, always juggling multiple projects.”

28. Big Daddy

This slang term refers to a director who is seen as the ultimate authority and holds significant power within their domain. It implies that the director is respected and influential.

For example, “The big daddy of the organization made the final decision.”
In a discussion about a sports team, someone might say, “The big daddy sets the rules and expectations for the players.”
A business article might mention, “The big daddy of the industry is known for their innovative ideas and leadership.”

29. Top Cat

This term refers to a director who is at the top of the hierarchy and holds a position of power and influence. It implies that the director is the leader and sets the direction for the team or organization.

For instance, “The top cat of the company made the final call.”
In a discussion about a music band, someone might say, “The top cat is responsible for selecting the songs and managing the band.”
A colleague might describe their director as, “Our top cat is always one step ahead and knows how to navigate challenges.”

30. Chief Executive Officer

This term is a formal title for the highest-ranking executive in a company or organization. The CEO is responsible for making major corporate decisions, managing operations, and leading the company.

For example, “The Chief Executive Officer of the company announced a new strategic plan.”
In a discussion about corporate governance, someone might say, “The CEO is accountable to the board of directors.”
A business article might mention, “The CEO’s vision and leadership have driven the company’s success.”

31. Boss man

This term is used to refer to someone who is in charge or has authority over others. “Boss man” is a slang term for a director or someone who is the head of a group or organization.

For example, in a workplace, an employee might say, “I need to check with the boss man before making any decisions.”
In a sports team, a player might say, “The boss man sets the strategy for the game.”
A friend might jokingly say, “You’re the boss man of this group, so you decide where we eat.”

32. Chief Officer

This term is often used in a corporate or business setting to refer to the highest-ranking executive officer in a company. The “chief officer” is responsible for making major decisions and overseeing the operations of the organization.

For instance, in a board meeting, someone might say, “Let’s hear from the chief officer on this matter.”
In a news article about a company, it might mention, “The chief officer announced a new strategic plan.”
A colleague might introduce the chief officer by saying, “This is our esteemed chief officer, who has led the company to great success.”

33. Head of the Pack

This term is used to describe someone who is the leader or director of a group or organization. The “head of the pack” is the person who sets the direction and leads the way for others to follow.

For example, in a wolf pack, the alpha wolf is the head of the pack.
In a team project, someone might say, “Let’s follow the lead of our head of the pack.”
A friend might say, “You’re the head of the pack when it comes to planning our trips.”