passed the mantle
Handed off responsibility
To pass the mantle is to transfer authority, responsibility, or a distinguished role to a successor.
The image comes from the cloak worn by prophets and kings—when Elijah ascended to heaven, his mantle fell to Elisha.
The retiring CEO passed the mantle to her protégé.
With his death, the mantle passed to his eldest son.
- ceremonyFormal event marking occasions
- delegationTransferring responsibility downward
- new leadershipRecently appointed decision-makers
- successionFollowing in order
- next in linePositioned to succeed immediately
changing of the guard · handing over · abdication · trust · responsibility · inheritance · family business · appointment · tradition · loyalty · biblical · legacy · old guard · consecration · insignia · rite · mentorship · stewardship
transfer of authority/responsibility
passed the mantleheld the reins
Exercised authority over direction
pass, passed, passing, passes, passer, passable, impassable, passage, passenger