* Noun: This is the most common usage, referring to a person who guides or directs others. Example: "She is a natural leader."
* Adjective: It can describe something that leads or is at the forefront. Example: "The leader dog guided the blind man."
* Verb: It can mean to act as a leader. Example: "He led the team to victory."
So, the specific part of speech depends on the context of the sentence.