Emily Dickinson Lexicon

CHIEF, a. [Fr. chef, the head, that is, the top or highest point; Norm. chief; Sp. xefe; Ir. ceap; It. capo. It is evidently from the same root as the L. caput, Gr. κεφαλη, and Eng. cape, but through the Celtic, probably from shooting, extending.]

1. Highest in office or rank; principal; as, a chief priest; the chief butler. – Gen. xl. 9. Among the chief rulers, many believed on him. – John xii.
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; agriculture is the chief employment of men. The hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass. – Ezra ix.
3. First in affection; most dear and familiar. A whisperer separateth chief friends. – Prov. xvi.