What does manager mean?
A manager is a person who directs, coordinates, and is accountable for an organization, business, team, project, or practical activity. The role can involve setting objectives, supervising staff, allocating resources, communicating with others, and ensuring that work is completed. Managers are found in settings ranging from corporate departments and small businesses to hospitals, hotels, and sports organizations. In sport, a manager has particular responsibility for a team's selection and performance, although the precise duties vary by sport and level of competition. The term is neutral and widely used in professional and everyday contexts. Its emphasis is normally on leadership and oversight rather than technical expertise alone, though the extent to which a manager performs hands-on work varies. Related forms include the adjective managerial and the process noun management.
nounA person who is responsible for managing an organization, business, team, project, or other activity. In sports, the term refers to the person who oversees a team and its performance.
- A person who manages a business, organization, department, or project.
- A person responsible for a sports team, including selecting personnel and overseeing performance.
- A person responsible for the day-to-day operation of a commercial establishment, such as a hotel, restaurant, or shop.
"She was appointed manager of the regional office after years of experience in finance."
"The manager approved the proposal after consulting with the project team."
"The manager restructured the squad before the beginning of the season."
Used when referring to more than one person in a leadership or supervisory role.
"The company appointed two managers to oversee its new distribution centers."
The word manager comes from Latin manu agere, literally “to conduct by hand,” a fitting reminder that even modern managers often begin by guiding the details themselves.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does manager come from?
Manager entered English in the early 16th century from French manageur, based on Latin manu agere, “to conduct by hand.” The Latin expression combined manus, “hand,” with agere, “to do, drive, or conduct.” English subsequently developed the closely related forms manage and management, while maneuver preserves the same Latin root through a different French form.
Related word forms
How manager is actually used
The word is used in both formal and informal contexts. In sports usage, it normally refers specifically to a team's head coach or equivalent executive.
Easily confused with manager
A manager is the person who oversees an organization or activity, whereas management refers to the process of organizing and controlling it.