adjective
masterful
Masterful (adjective) means showing outstanding skill, as if done by an expert. Example: “The pianist gave a masterful performance of the concerto.”
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.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
masterful performance
masterful stroke
masterful control
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more masterful
- Superlative
- most masterful
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The pianist gave a _____ performance of the concerto.
Etymology
From Middle English maysterful, built from master plus -ful.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for masterful
See all rhymes for masterful →Frequently asked questions
What does “masterful” mean?
The word “masterful” means showing outstanding skill, as if done by an expert. In plain terms, done with impressive skill, or (less often) bossy and commanding.
How do you use “masterful” in a sentence?
Here is “masterful” used in a sentence: “The pianist gave a masterful performance of the concerto.”
What part of speech is “masterful”?
“Masterful” is an adjective.
Where does the word “masterful” come from?
The word “masterful” comes from Middle English. From Middle English maysterful, built from master plus -ful.
How many meanings does “masterful” have?
“Masterful” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: showing outstanding skill, as if done by an expert.
