master
MAHS-tuh
Master (noun) means a person with exceptional skill or deep expertise in something. Example: “The old potter was a true master, and his bowls were known across the region.”
noun
1
A person with exceptional skill or deep expertise in something.
"The old potter was a true master, and his bowls were known across the region."
"She is a master of negotiation, closing every deal on her terms."
"He trained for decades to become a martial arts master."
2
Someone with authority or control over other people, animals, or things.
"The ship's master gave the order to leave the harbour at dawn."
"The puppy ran to its master as soon as he came through the door."
"The dog obeyed its master's every command."
3
A postgraduate degree, or someone holding one.
"He holds a master in history from a university in Scotland."
"After her degree, she studied for a master in marine biology."
"She completed her master's in economics last year."
verb
1
To gain complete skill or control over something.
"Children can master a new language quickly if they hear it every day."
"It took years to master the violin."
"He finally mastered his fear of public speaking."
adjective
1
Main or most important; controlling all the rest.
"The master bedroom is the largest room in the house."
"Use the master key to open every door in the hotel."
"The master switch shuts off power to the whole building."
How to use master
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone (or something) in complete control or command of a skill, situation, or other people.
Common pairings
master craftsman
master plan
master key
master of ceremonies
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like master.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- masters
- Third person singular
- masters
- Past tense
- mastered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old potter was a true _____, and his bowls were known across the region.
Etymology
From Old English mæster, borrowed from Latin magister ("chief, teacher"), ultimately from an Indo-European root shared with "much" and "magnus" (great).
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for master
See all rhymes for master →Frequently asked questions
What does “master” mean?
The word “master” means a person with exceptional skill or deep expertise in something. In plain terms, someone (or something) in complete control or command of a skill, situation, or other people.
How do you pronounce “master”?
“Master” is pronounced MAHS-tuh (/ˈmæs.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “master” in a sentence?
Here is “master” used in a sentence: “She is a master of negotiation, closing every deal on her terms.”
What part of speech is “master”?
Depending on how it is used, “master” can be a noun, a verb and an adjective.
Where does the word “master” come from?
The word “master” comes from Latin. From Old English mæster, borrowed from Latin magister ("chief, teacher"), ultimately from an Indo-European root shared with "much" and "magnus" (great).
Is “master” a common word?
“Master” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “master” have?
“Master” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person with exceptional skill or deep expertise in something.
What is the difference between a master and an expert?
Both have deep knowledge, but a master usually ranks higher. An expert knows a subject thoroughly and performs reliably well; a master has refined that skill to an exceptional, almost effortless level and can often teach or set the standard for others. Every master is an expert, but not every expert is a master.
Can anyone become a master?
In principle, yes — mastery is earned rather than inborn. It usually takes years of focused, deliberate practice, honest feedback and a willingness to keep improving long after the basics are learned. Natural talent helps, but sustained effort and experience are what truly turn a beginner into a master.
What is an example of a master?
A chess grandmaster who reads the board many moves ahead, a master carpenter whose joints fit flawlessly, or a master chef who balances flavours by instinct are all good examples. Each shows the deep, practised skill and command of their craft that the word describes.
How do you become a master of something?
Mastery comes from long, deliberate practice: setting clear goals, working at the edge of your ability, seeking feedback and correcting weaknesses. Learning from those already skilled, and putting in years of real experience rather than casual repetition, is what gradually turns competence into genuine mastery.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include master:
