adjective
masterful
adjective
1
Showing outstanding skill, as if done by an expert.
"The pianist gave a masterful performance of the concerto."
"Her masterful handling of the crisis impressed the board."
2
Domineering or used to giving orders.
"His masterful tone left no room for argument."
How to Use Masterful
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDone with impressive skill, or (less often) bossy and commanding.
Common pairings
masterful performance
masterful stroke
masterful control
Word Forms
more masterful comparative, most masterful superlative
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Etymology
From Middle English maysterful, built from master plus -ful.