Lieutenant

This word has now a narrower meaning than it formerly had: its true meaning is a deputy, a substitute, from the French lieu (place or post) and tenant (holder). Among civil officers we have lieutenant-governors, who in certain cases perform the duties of governors, lieutenants of police, etc. Among military men, lieutenant-general was formerly the title of a commanding general, but now it signifies the degree above major-general. Lieutenant-colonel is the officer between the colonel and the major. Lieutenant, simply, signifies the officer next below a captain. In the navy, a lieutenant is the second officer, next in command to the captain of a ship.