What does mayor mean?
A mayor is the head of a town, city, municipality, or similar local government. The office is generally filled through an election, although appointment and historical or hereditary arrangements also occur in some places. A mayor typically presides over municipal administration, works with councillors or council members, and represents the locality to the public and other levels of government. The exact responsibilities vary greatly: some mayors have substantial control over city departments, budgets, and planning, while others have mainly a ceremonial or representative role. The term is familiar in everyday English and can also be used to refer to a mayor’s office, as in “mayoral election,” or to duties associated with the position. Although the word sounds straightforward today, its history connects it to the Latin word for “greater,” reflecting the original idea of a senior civic official.
nounThe head of a town, city, or municipality, elected or appointed to govern the local government and represent the community. In some countries, the title is also used for the head of a municipality or a similar administrative division.
- The elected or appointed head of a city, town, municipality, or other local government.
"The mayor announced a new plan to improve public transportation in the city."
"The mayor met with residents to discuss the proposed housing development."
"Her excellency, the mayor, opened the new civic center."
The regular plural is “mayors,” used for more than one mayor.
"The mayors of several neighboring cities discussed regional housing policy."
The word “mayor” comes from the same ancient root as “major”: both ultimately refer to being greater or more important.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mayor come from?
The English word “mayor” entered Middle English from Old French “maire,” which came from the Late Latin “maior,” meaning “greater” or “superior.” The same Latin root is the source of English words such as “major,” “majority,” and “majesty.” Over time, “mayor” developed from a general term for a superior official into the specific title of the head of a town or city.
Related word forms
How mayor is actually used
The title is used in the United Kingdom, the United States, and many other countries. In the United States, the precise powers of a mayor vary considerably by city. “Mayor” can be used attributively, as in “mayoral election” or “mayoral duties.”