1. Highest in office or rank; principal; as a chief priest; the chief butler. Gen 40:9.

Among the chief rulers, many believed on him. John 12.

2. Principal or most eminent, in any quality or action; most distinguished; having most influence; commanding most respect; taking the lead; most valuable; most important; a word of extensive use; as a country chief in arms.

The hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass. Ezra 9.

Agriculture is the chief employment of men.

3. First in affection; most dear and familiar.

A whisperer separateth chief friends. Prov 16.

, adv. Chiefly.