Meaning & use

master

noun·Everyday

A person who has control over people or things, or who has great skill in a particular field.

See it in a sentence

The old craftsman was regarded as a master of traditional woodworking techniques.

As the plantation's master, he had authority over everyone who worked there.

A note on using this word

Master can describe someone with power over others or someone with exceptional skill, so context determines which sense applies.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. verb

To gain complete knowledge of or skill in something through study or practice.

It took her years of daily practice to master the violin.

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