B2noun2K

Mayor

UK /["/meə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈmeɪər/"]/

Definition

the head of the government of a town or city, etc., elected by the public

In simple words: The person in charge of a town or city.

Examples

  • the Mayor of New York
  • Mayor Lori Lightfoot
  • This is the second time she has run for mayor of St. Louis.
  • He became the first directly elected mayor of London in 2000.
  • The allegations were made in an article by former New York mayor, Ed Koch.

Usage notes

This term is most commonly used in political contexts. It is appropriate in formal and informal settings when discussing local government. Avoid using it sarcastically or in contexts unrelated to government.

Grammar pattern

mayor + of + location

Memory hint

Think 'mayor' sounds like 'my ear' - imagine the mayor listening to the people.

Collocations

  • local
  • deputy
  • lord
  • run for
  • elect (somebody)
  • elect somebody as
  • mayor of
  • local
  • deputy
  • lord
  • run for
  • elect (somebody)
  • elect somebody as
  • mayor of

Synonyms

  • chief executive
  • city leader
  • town leader
  • municipal head

Antonyms

  • citizen
  • follower

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'major' which refers to importance, not a person in government.
  • Using 'mayor' in plural form (mayors) without clear context.
  • Incorrectly assuming all cities have a mayor; some might have different titles.