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Magisterial: meaning, definitions and examples

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magisterial

 

[ mædʒɪˈstɪəriəl ]

Adjective
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.

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

Etymology

The term 'magisterial' originates from the Latin word 'magister', meaning 'master' or 'chief', which implies an air of authority and expertise. Transformed into English during the Middle Ages, it adopted connotations of both educational and governing authority. Historically, the term has been associated with figures in power who commanded respect and exhibited leadership qualities. Over the centuries, its usage expanded beyond just governance to encompass scholarly and intellectual authority, reflecting how a person's commands or assertions are considered beyond question when delivered with magisterial confidence. Its evolution encapsulates both social hierarchy and the weight of knowledge, cementing its place in the English vocabulary as a descriptor for those who present themselves as leaders in various domains.

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.