masterpiece
MAHS-tuh-pees
Masterpiece (noun) means a work considered the finest example of its creator's skill or of its kind. Example: “Critics called the film a masterpiece of modern cinema.”
noun
1
A work considered the finest example of its creator's skill or of its kind.
"Critics called the film a masterpiece of modern cinema."
"The novel is widely regarded as his masterpiece."
"The museum's centrepiece is a masterpiece that took the artist many years to paint."
How to use masterpiece
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone's single best or most celebrated piece of work.
Common pairings
a true masterpiece
artistic masterpiece
considered a masterpiece
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Word forms
- Plural
- masterpieces
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Critics called the film a _____ of modern cinema.
Etymology
From master plus piece, echoing older guild traditions where a "masterpiece" was the qualifying work a craftsman submitted to be certified a master.
Synonyms
View more →
tour de force
showpiece
gem
classic
chef d'œuvre
magnum opus
masterwork
pièce de résistance
work of art
Antonyms
piece of junk
trash
Related words
Rhymes for masterpiece
See all rhymes for masterpiece →Frequently asked questions
What does “masterpiece” mean?
The word “masterpiece” means a work considered the finest example of its creator's skill or of its kind. In plain terms, someone's single best or most celebrated piece of work.
How do you pronounce “masterpiece”?
“Masterpiece” is pronounced MAHS-tuh-pees (/ˈmæstɚˌpis/ in IPA).
How do you use “masterpiece” in a sentence?
Here is “masterpiece” used in a sentence: “Critics called the film a masterpiece of modern cinema.”
What is another word for “masterpiece”?
Words with a similar meaning to “masterpiece” include chef d'œuvre, magnum opus, masterwork, pièce de résistance and work of art.
What is the opposite of “masterpiece”?
The opposite of “masterpiece” — its antonyms — are piece of junk and trash.
What part of speech is “masterpiece”?
“Masterpiece” is a noun.
Is “masterpiece” a common word?
“Masterpiece” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a masterpiece and a magnum opus?
A masterpiece is generally the finest example of its creator's skill or of its kind, and a person can produce more than one. A magnum opus specifically refers to a single work regarded as the greatest achievement of a particular creator's entire career.
Can masterpiece be used for something other than art?
Yes, masterpiece is commonly applied beyond painting or sculpture to describe any outstanding creative or technical achievement, such as a novel, film, building, or even a meal. The key requirement is that it represents the finest example of its kind.
Is masterpiece a formal or everyday word?
Masterpiece is used in both everyday and formal contexts, from casual praise of a friend's cooking to serious art criticism describing a museum piece. It always signals the highest possible praise for the quality of the work.
