[chair] n [ME chaiere, fr. OF, fr. L cathedra, fr. Gk kathedra, fr. kata- cata- + hedra seat--more at sit] (13c) 1 a: a seat typically having four legs and a back for one person b: electric chair--used with the
2. a: an official seat or a seat of authority, state, or dignity b: an office or position of authority or dignity c: professorship "holds a university ~" d: chairman 1
3: a sedan chair
4: a position of employment usu. of one occupying a chair or desk; specif: the position of a player in an orchestra or band
5: any of various devices that hold up or support
[2]chair vt (1552) 1: to install in office
2. chiefly Brit: to carry on the shoulders in acclaim "we ~ed you through the market place --A. E. Housman"
3: to preside as chairman of