noun / verb
tenure
TEN-yer/ˈtenjər/
The holding of an employment position.
The professor's settled office reflects a long tenure in the position.
Etymology
Tenure originally concerned the right to hold land in return for service. That idea broadened to holding a position, including how long it lasts or a guarantee of continued employment.
In context
During his tenure as Chief of Staff, he would fire 217 generals, 255 colonels, and 337 lieutenant-colonels.
More examples
- During his tenure as principal, he started an after-school program.
- The university grants tenure after reviewing a professor’s teaching and research.
- The college tenures only a few professors each year.
Forms
tenure · tenures · tenured · tenuring
Similar words
- term
- Usually names a fixed period in office with an endpoint.
- incumbency
- Specifically means holding an office, especially an elected one.