Master Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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master

[หˆmษ‘หstษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a profession or craft

A person who has complete control over something, especially a skilled practitioner of a particular art or activity.

Synonyms

adept, expert, specialist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
master

This word is best used when someone has complete control or a high level of skill in a particular activity or subject. It can be used both formally and informally.

  • He is a master of chess.
  • She mastered the art of painting in just a few years.
expert

This word is appropriate in formal settings or when referring to someone recognized for their advanced skills and knowledge in a particular field.

  • She is an expert in cybersecurity.
  • The company consulted an expert to improve their marketing strategy.
specialist

This term is often used in professional or academic settings to describe someone with deep knowledge and focus in a particular area of study or practice.

  • He is a specialist in pediatric medicine.
  • The project requires a software specialist.
adept

Use this word when describing someone who is highly skilled, usually as a result of practice and experience. It has a slightly formal tone.

  • She is adept at solving complex math problems.
  • He became adept in several languages over the years.

Examples of usage

  • He is a master of his craft.
  • She is a master in the art of negotiation.
Context #2 | Noun

slave owner

A man who has slaves.

Synonyms

employer, owner, slaveholder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
master

Used to refer to someone highly skilled in a particular activity or art. It can also refer to a person who has control over others in historical and traditional contexts. It is more neutral but can have historical connotations of slavery or servitude.

  • He is a master of martial arts.
  • The dog obeyed its master's commands.
slaveholder

Used to refer to someone who owns slaves. This term has a very negative connotation and is specific to historical contexts involving slavery.

  • The documentary explored the life of a 19th-century slaveholder.
owner

Used to refer to someone who owns something, which can be anything from property to a business. It is broader and doesn't necessarily imply control over people.

  • The owner of the restaurant decided to renovate the kitchen.
  • She is the proud owner of a new car.
employer

Used to refer to someone who employs people or provides jobs. It is typically used in a business or corporate context.

  • Her employer provides health insurance.
  • The employer offered a competitive salary for the position.

Examples of usage

  • The master treated his slaves cruelly.
  • The plantation owner was considered the master by all the slaves.
Context #3 | Verb

overcome

To overcome or defeat.

Synonyms

conquer, defeat, overcome.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
master

This word is often used to describe gaining a high level of skill or control over something. It implies proficiency and expertise.

  • She took years to master the art of playing the piano.
  • Once you master the basics, you can move on to more advanced techniques.
overcome

This word is used when discussing prevailing over difficulties, obstacles, or negative situations. It generally has a positive connotation of resilience and perseverance.

  • With hard work and determination, she was able to overcome the obstacles in her career.
  • He needed to overcome many challenges to achieve his goals.
conquer

This word often implies overcoming something that is challenging or dominating something with effort and determination. It has a somewhat heroic or strong connotation.

  • He managed to conquer his fear of heights after years of trying.
  • The explorers set out to conquer the uncharted territory.
defeat

This word is used in the context of winning over an opponent or challenge. It often has a competitive or conflict-oriented connotation.

  • The team worked hard to defeat their rivals in the championship game.
  • She was determined not to let the illness defeat her spirit.

Examples of usage

  • He managed to master his fear and stand up to the challenge.
  • She was determined to master the difficult task.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Education

  • In academia, a 'master's degree' indicates advanced knowledge in a specific field beyond a bachelor's degree.
  • The term is often used in martial arts, where 'master' refers to individuals who have achieved high levels of expertise and teaching capability.
  • In classrooms, a 'master teacher' is someone who excels at both teaching and mentoring other educators.

Technology

  • In software development, a 'master branch' in version control systems holds the main codebase, where crucial part developments are merged.
  • The term 'master' has evolved in tech communities to address issues with its connotation, leading to alternative terms like 'main'.
  • Certain artificial intelligence systems use 'master' to denote primary models or algorithms that guide other subordinate models.

Culture

  • In playing music, a 'master' can refer to a musician who has achieved exceptional skills in their instrument, often revered in music societies.
  • Movies often depict characters who are 'masters' of their craft, providing a relatable figure for excellence and mentorship.
  • In various forms of art, a 'master' signifies the highest level of command over the visual language, inspiring others.

Origin of 'master'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'maegester', meaning 'one who has control or authority'.
  • In Latin, the term 'magister' signified a teacher or chief, which paved the way for the modern meaning.
  • Throughout history, the term has also referred to skilled artisans, like 'master craftsmen' in various trades.

The word 'master' originated from the Old English 'mรฆgster', which is derived from the Latin 'magister'. It has been used for centuries to refer to someone who has authority, control, or expertise in a particular field. Over time, the word has evolved to have various meanings, including a skilled practitioner, a slave owner, or to overcome. The concept of mastery has been valued in many cultures throughout history, leading to the word 'master' holding a position of respect and authority.


See also: mast.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,299, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.