1. Human Head: In a literal sense, "head" referred to the upper part of the human body, including the skull, brain, and face.
2. Leader or Chief: "Head" could also denote a person in a position of leadership or authority. For example, the ruler of a kingdom or a noble would be referred to as the "head" of the state or household.
3. Chief of a Religious Order: In religious contexts, "head" could refer to the leader of a monastery, abbey, or other religious community.
4. Head of a Family: Within a family unit, the father or patriarch was often considered the "head" of the household.
5. Head of a Guild: In medieval cities, guilds were associations of craftsmen or merchants. The head of a guild was known as the "headman" or "master."
6. Head of a Village: In rural communities, the headman or headwoman would hold a leadership position, often responsible for administrative matters and resolving disputes.
7. Military Leader: In military contexts, the commander of an army, division, or garrison could be referred to as the "head" of the force.
8. Head of a Department: Within a larger organization or institution, the individual in charge of a specific department or division might be referred to as the department head or section head.
9. Artistic or Intellectual Leader: In the world of arts and sciences, a prominent artist, scholar, or intellectual could be regarded as the "head" of a particular movement, school of thought, or artistic style.
10. Religious Figurehead: In some religions, the spiritual leader or high priest might be referred to as the "head" of the faith or religious community.
It's important to consider the specific context in which the term "head" is used to determine its precise meaning in the Middle Ages.