1. the eldest son of a king of France, especially the heir to the throne
Usage: historical; capitalized when referring to a specific historical figure
2. a young man groomed or expected to take over a position of power or leadership
Usage: figurative; modern usage

Examples

• The dauphin was educated in statecraft and military strategy from childhood.
• In medieval France, the dauphin held significant political authority before becoming king.
• The company's dauphin was announced as the next chief executive officer.
• He was seen as the dauphin of the political party, destined to lead it into the future.
• The young dauphin spent years preparing for his eventual role as monarch.
• Several candidates competed to become the organization's dauphin.