Daily Word Box

Word

principal

noun B2

Meanings

noun

the person in charge of a school

Visual cue for principal — meaning 1
adjective

the most important or main person, thing, or reason

Visual cue for principal — meaning 2
noun

the original amount of money in an investment or loan, not including interest

Visual cue for principal — meaning 3

Definition

A principal is the person in charge of a school or the most important person or thing in a situation.

A principal is the leader of a school, responsible for managing teachers, students, and daily operations. The word can also mean the most important or main person, reason, or amount in a situation. In finance, it can refer to the original amount of money before interest is added. The meaning is usually clear from context.

Examples

  • I need to speak to the principal about my schedule.
  • The principal greeted students at the school entrance.
  • Safety is our principal concern during the storm.
  • The principal reason I moved was for work.
  • She paid back the principal and then the interest.