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Magisterial: meaning, definitions and examples

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magisterial

 

[mædʒɪˈstɪəriəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

authoritative tone

Magisterial describes a manner that is commanding, authoritative, or having a superior air. It is often used to characterize someone who exudes control or is seen as an expert in their field. Individuals with a magisterial demeanor may speak or act in a way that suggests they know best and expect compliance from others. This term can refer to leadership styles or even academic authority, where generations of knowledge are delivered with confidence.

Synonyms

authoritative, commanding, dictatorial, dominant, imperial.

Examples of usage

  • The professor gave a magisterial lecture on ancient history.
  • Her magisterial report left no room for doubt.
  • He spoke with a magisterial authority that captivated the audience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'magister', meaning 'master' or 'teacher'.
  • In Medieval Latin, 'magisterial' referred to things related to a teacher's authority or office.

Historical Significance

  • In education, magisterial figures such as professors and judges command high respect and academic authority.
  • Throughout history, rulers and leaders have often been described as magisterial, emphasizing their control over governance.

Literature

  • The term is often used in literary criticisms to describe a work that exudes authority or commands attention.
  • Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, have been noted for their magisterial prose style, combining authority with creativity.

Psychology

  • Research shows that confident and authoritative communication can enhance persuasion and influence in social settings.
  • People often perceive individuals who speak in a magisterial tone as more competent and trustworthy.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary contexts, individuals may be described as magisterial when they exhibit a commanding presence in their profession, like lawyers or leaders.
  • The word has entered popular culture to describe anyone who speaks or acts with great authority, such as a charismatic mentor or coach.

Translations

Translations of the word "magisterial" in other languages:

🇵🇹 magisterial

🇮🇳 प्राधिकारिता

🇩🇪 magisterial

🇮🇩 magisterial

🇺🇦 магістерський

🇵🇱 magisterialny

🇯🇵 マギステリル

🇫🇷 magistériel

🇪🇸 magisterial

🇹🇷 magisterial

🇰🇷 마지스터리얼

🇸🇦 ماجستير

🇨🇿 magisterský

🇸🇰 magisterský

🇨🇳 硕士的

🇸🇮 magisterialen

🇮🇸 meistara

🇰🇿 магистралды

🇬🇪 მაგისტრალური

🇦🇿 magistral

🇲🇽 magisterial

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,808, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.