A supervisor who oversees workers in construction, manufacturing, or other manual labor. Also refers to the leader of a jury in legal proceedings.
From Middle English, literally 'fore-man' meaning the man who goes before or leads others. The compound combines 'fore' (before, in front) with 'man' (person), emphasizing the leadership position.
The foreman historically bridged the gap between management and workers, often rising from the ranks through experience rather than formal education. In jury contexts, the foreman serves as the group's spokesperson, reflecting the word's core meaning of leadership and representation.
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