Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪks hˈɛlm] (IPA) 
When we spell the phrase "takes helm," we can break it down into its individual sounds using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Takes" is spelled /teɪks/, with the "a" pronounced like the "a" in "day" and the "e" like the "e" in "bed." "Helm" is spelled /hɛlm/, with the "e" pronounced like the "e" in "red." Together, these sounds form the phrase "takes helm," which means to assume control or leadership.
The phrase "takes the helm" refers to assuming control or leadership of a particular endeavor, organization, or group. The term originates from nautical language, where "helm" refers to the steering mechanism of a ship. When someone "takes the helm," it signifies that they are assuming command and responsibility for guiding the ship in the desired direction.
In a broader context, "takes the helm" means to assume control or authority over a situation or project. It implies the act of stepping into a leadership role and taking charge of decision-making and direction-setting. By taking the helm, an individual becomes accountable for the successful management and outcome of the endeavor, leading and guiding others towards achieving specific goals.
Taking the helm often implies a sense of responsibility, expertise, and confidence in one's ability to steer the course towards success. It is a declaration of readiness to actively lead, make crucial decisions, and navigate challenges.
The phrase is commonly used in the business world, politics, and other domain-specific contexts. For example, when a new CEO is appointed, it can be said that they "take the helm" of the company. Similarly, in political discourse, a new leader who assumes control of a country or political party "takes the helm." It exemplifies the act of assuming leadership, gaining control, and steering the course towards an envisioned destination.
The phrase "takes helm" does not have a specific etymology on its own because "takes" and "helm" are two separate words with distinct origins.
The verb "takes" comes from the Old English word "tacan", which means "to grasp, to catch hold of, to capture" or "to receive, accept". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*takaną".
On the other hand, "helm" refers to the steering apparatus used to control a ship or a boat. This word has its roots in the Old English noun "helma", which later derived from the Old Norse word "hjalmr". Both of these terms share a common Germanic origin, namely the Proto-Germanic word "*helmaz", meaning "protective covering" or "protection".
