formann

Formann is a term used in Norwegian and, to a lesser extent, in other Scandinavian languages to designate a person who leads or supervises a group, typically translated as foreman, supervisor, or chairman. The word is etymologically linked to Old Norse and other Germanic roots meaning “head man” or “front man,” and it has cognates in related languages.

In contemporary Norwegian, formann is still found in some contexts, particularly in unions, local organizations, or historical/legal writings. Many modern contexts prefer terms such as leder (leader) or styreleder (board chair). The definite form is formannen, and the plural forms are formenn or formennene, depending on dialect and style guide. The usage can be regional and may appear more in traditional or formal registers than in everyday speech.

In Swedish, formann is largely archaic or dialectal; the standard terms for a chairperson are ordförande or sometimes styrelseordförande. In Danish, the cognate formand is the common term, while formann is rarely used outside historical texts or specific proper names.

Beyond language, formann can appear as a surname in Scandinavian contexts, though this is relatively uncommon.

See also: Foreman, Chairman, Leader, Supervisor, Ordförande (Swedish), Formand (Danish).