don

The leader of a group of organized criminals, especially in the Italian Mafia.

• The don controlled the whole district.
• Two rival dons met in secret.
• Nobody dared ignore the don’s orders.

Similar words: mafia boss, crime boss

Common phrases: mafia don, powerful don, local don

A university teacher, especially at Oxford or Cambridge.

• An Oxford don gave the lecture.
• The dons discussed the college’s future.
• She became a Cambridge don after completing her research.

Similar words: academic, university teacher

Common phrases: Oxford don, Cambridge don, college don

To put on a piece of clothing or something you wear.

• He donned his coat and left.
• Visitors must don gloves before entering.
• She dons a bright costume for each performance.

Similar words: put on

Opposites: remove, doff

Common phrases: don a hat, don a uniform, don protective clothing