formað

Formað is an Icelandic noun used to denote the presiding officer of a committee, board, council, or other deliberative body. The term is commonly understood as the person who chairs meetings, guides discussion, and oversees procedural conduct within the body. In formal contexts the standard title is often rendered as formadur (or formaður in the masculine form) in modern Icelandic, while formánd may appear as an abbreviated or inflected variant in some texts or dialectal usage. The exact form chosen can depend on organizational rules and the holder’s gender.

Role and duties typically associated with a formað include chairing meetings, setting agendas, ensuring adherence to rules of procedure, and facilitating decision-making. The formað often represents the body in official functions and communications and oversees the implementation of approved motions or policies. In many organizations the position is supported by a deputy or vice-chair (varaformaður) and works closely with executive staff to coordinate activities and oversee administrative tasks.

Appointment and tenure vary by organization. The formað is generally elected by the members of the body or appointed by a higher governing entity, with terms and powers defined in the organization’s statutes or charter. In some institutions the role is part-time and unpaid, while in others it is a paid, full-time position tied to organizational leadership.

Etymology and usage notes indicate that formadur/formaður is rooted in Icelandic traditions of leadership and governance, with cognates in related Scandinavian languages reflecting the same concept of a presiding officer. The formað form also appears in certain inflectional contexts, contributing to its occasional use as a shorthand for the office. See also formaður, varaformaður, and formaður for related terms.