What is a Doyen? Definition, Examples, and More!

Doyen (plural: doyens) is a noun that refers to a person who is considered an authority or a leader in a particular field or profession. The word is derived from the French word "doyen," which means "dean" or "elder."

In English, the term doyen is often used to describe someone who has a high level of expertise or experience in their field and is widely respected for their knowledge and abilities. For example, a company might refer to one of its long-serving employees as a doyen of the industry, indicating that they have a deep understanding of the business and are highly regarded by their colleagues.

Doyen can also be used more broadly to describe someone who is considered a leader or an elder statesman/woman in any field or profession, regardless of their level of expertise or experience. In this sense, the term is often used to convey respect and admiration for someone who has made significant contributions to their field over a long period of time.