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Maven Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maven

[ˈmeɪvən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

expert

A maven is an expert or connoisseur, someone who has deep knowledge or understanding of a particular field or subject. The term often implies that the person not only possesses expertise, but also actively shares their knowledge with others. This sharing of information can take many forms, including teaching, mentoring, or simply offering advice based on their experience. Mavens are often trusted sources of information and can influence others' opinions or actions through their insights.

Synonyms

authority, expert, guru, specialist, whiz.

Examples of usage

  • She is a maven in sustainable living practices.
  • As a tech maven, he frequently speaks at industry conferences.
  • The fashion maven shared her insights on the latest trends.
  • He became a travel maven by visiting dozens of countries.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Business and Marketing

  • Mavens are often used in marketing as influential figures who help spread information about products or ideas.
  • In the context of consumer behavior, mavens act as trusted advisors, influencing others' purchase decisions.
  • They are key in word-of-mouth marketing, where their recommendations can significantly impact a brand's success.

Psychology

  • Mavens typically have a strong desire to share knowledge, driven by a passion for their specific interests.
  • They often exhibit traits of curiosity and a love for learning, which leads to accumulating vast amounts of information.
  • Research shows that mavens tend to be more persuasive due to their perceived credibility and depth of knowledge.

Technology

  • In the digital age, mavens can be found as influencers in social media, blogging, or other online platforms.
  • They help shape trends by sharing insights about new technologies and practices within their niche.
  • Online communities increasingly rely on mavens for guidance, making them essential in developing user-driven experiences.

Education

  • Mavens can act as informal educators, sharing their expertise and experience with peers and novices alike.
  • Their mentorship can inspire others to pursue knowledge in the same field, fostering a community of learning.
  • In cooperative learning settings, mavens enhance group dynamics by offering support and resources to others.

Origin of 'maven'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Yiddish word 'meyvn,' meaning 'one who understands.'
  • It was popularized in English by the 1980 book 'The Tipping Point' by Malcolm Gladwell, which discussed social influence.
  • The term has Yiddish roots, reflecting a cultural appreciation for expertise and profession.

The word 'maven' originates from the Yiddish word 'meyvn', which translates to 'one who understands'. This term itself is derived from the Hebrew word 'mevin', meaning 'to understand' or 'to comprehend'. It became popular in American English in the 1960s, especially in contexts related to consumers and marketing, where it was used to describe individuals with specialized knowledge who can influence the purchase decisions of others. The rise of the term can be linked to a growing emphasis on expertise and authority in various fields, particularly in relation to consumer behavior and social dynamics. Today, 'maven' continues to be used to denote someone who not only has knowledge, but also possesses the ability to share that knowledge effectively with others, making it a key concept in marketing, social influence, and networking.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,934, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.