Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word
masterful. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
masterful, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
masterful in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
masterful you have here. The definition of the word
masterful will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
masterful, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Alternative forms
Etymology
From Middle English maysterful, maistrefull, equivalent to master + -ful.
Adjective
masterful (comparative more masterful, superlative most masterful)
- Of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.
- The brushwork on the skin tones was masterful.
- In the manner of a master; very skillful.
- The masterful conducting ensured the orchestra gave of their best.
2023 December 12, Sambhav Sankar, “A justice stewarding a Constitution”, in SCOTUSblog:But Newdow (who argued his own case despite having minimal legal training) did an unexpectedly masterful job at the lectern.
- Having or showing the qualities of a master vis-a-vis a dependent or subordinate; authoritative; domineering.
1847, Charlotte Brontë, chapter 14, in Jane Eyre, Rochester to Jane by the fire:...do you not agree with me that I have a right to be a little masterful, abrupt; perhaps exacting, sometimes, on the grounds I stated...
- 1868-69, Louisa May Alcott, Little Women, Chapter 38:
- When John spoke in that masterful tone, Meg always obeyed, and never regretted her docility.
- 1908, E. M. Forster, A Room with a View, Chapter 18, Lucy to Mr. Beebe about Cecil:
- ...it was that he is so masterful. I found that he wouldn't let me go my own way.
Usage notes
Historically, definition 3 of masterful (authoritative, domineering) has long been losing ground to definitions 1 and 2 (masterly, skillful). In nineteenth century US usage of masterful, definition 3 was almost always meant (10:1). In contemporary US usage, however, the situation is reversed: definitions 1 or 2 are usually meant (10:1).
Derived terms
Related terms
Anagrams