To lead is to guide or direct someone or something, such as being in charge of a group, showing the way, or being ahead in a game or competition.
From Old English *lǣdan*, meaning to cause to go or to guide, related to *lithan*, to go. It is part of an ancient family of motion and guidance words.
*Lead* is one of those English words with a spelling twin: *lead* the verb (/liːd/) and *lead* the metal (/lɛd/). The guiding sense of *lead* is at the root of *leader*, *leading*, and even *leadership*—all about being the one who goes in front.
'Lead' as a verb and noun (leadership roles, leads on projects) has historically been associated with men due to gendered norms about authority and decision-making. Women and nonbinary people in lead roles have often faced skepticism or been overlooked.
Avoid assuming that 'the lead' on a project is male or using pronouns that default to 'he'. Highlight diverse examples of people in lead roles when giving illustrations.
Women have led major scientific, political, and cultural initiatives, often without being credited as the lead; naming them explicitly helps correct the historical record.
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