Taskmaster: meaning, definitions and examples
👨💼
taskmaster
[ ˈtɑːskˌmɑːstər ]
TV show
A person who assigns tasks to others, especially in a work environment, and supervises their completion.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The taskmaster at the office always makes sure everyone is on track with their assignments.
- As the taskmaster of the project, he kept everyone motivated and focused on their tasks.
Historical context
A person responsible for meting out punishment or assigning tasks to slaves or servants.
Synonyms
overseer, slave driver, whipper
Examples of usage
- In ancient Rome, the taskmaster would often use a whip to ensure the slaves worked efficiently.
- The taskmaster in the plantation was feared by all the slaves for his cruel punishments.
Informal context
A person who is very strict or demanding in assigning tasks or getting things done.
Synonyms
demanding, perfectionist, stickler
Examples of usage
- She's a real taskmaster when it comes to meeting deadlines.
- My father was a taskmaster when it came to chores around the house.
Translations
Translations of the word "taskmaster" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mestre de tarefas
🇮🇳 कार्यपालक
🇩🇪 Aufgabenmeister
🇮🇩 penguasa tugas
🇺🇦 майстер завдань
🇵🇱 mistrz zadań
🇯🇵 タスクマスター (tasukumastā)
🇫🇷 maître des tâches
🇪🇸 maestro de tareas
🇹🇷 görev ustası
🇰🇷 작업 관리자 (jageob gwanlija)
🇸🇦 سيد المهام
🇨🇿 mistr úkolů
🇸🇰 majster úloh
🇨🇳 任务大师 (rènwù dàshī)
🇸🇮 mojster nalog
🇮🇸 verkefnisstjóri
🇰🇿 тапсырма шебері
🇬🇪 დავალებების ოსტატი
🇦🇿 vəzifə ustası
🇲🇽 maestro de tareas
Word origin
The term 'taskmaster' originated in the mid-16th century and was originally used to refer to a person who supervised the work of others, especially in the context of assigning tasks to slaves or servants. Over time, the term evolved to encompass anyone who assigns tasks and oversees their completion. The word 'taskmaster' is a combination of 'task,' meaning a piece of work to be done, and 'master,' indicating someone with authority or control.
See also: multitasker, overtask, taskbar, tasks.