masterful
/mˈæstɚfəl/
Word Rarity
Rare
Frequency: Zipf frequency 3.06 in modern English
14
Scrabble Score
9
Letters
3
Syllables
9
Unique Chars
Meaning
adj
Of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.
adj
Having or showing the qualities of a master vis-à-vis a dependent or subordinate; authoritative; domineering.
Example Sentences
- "The brushwork on the skin tones was masterful."
- "The masterful conducting ensured the orchestra gave of their best."
- "As Washington Post reporter Barton Gellman showed in his brilliant biography, Cheney deployed his masterful knowledge of policymaking to exert influence at all levels of government."
- "But Newdow (who argued his own case despite having minimal legal training) did an unexpectedly masterful job at the lectern."
- "...do you not agree with me that I have a right to be a little masterful, abrupt; perhaps exacting, sometimes, on the grounds I stated..."
- "When John spoke in that masterful tone, Meg always obeyed, and never regretted her docility."
Etymology
Origin
Word Breakdown
- Root: maysterful