mastery

noun

mas·​tery ˈma-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce mastery (audio)
1
a
: the authority of a master : dominion
b
: the upper hand in a contest or competition : superiority, ascendancy
2
a
: possession or display of great skill or technique
b
: skill or knowledge that makes one master of a subject : command

Examples of mastery in a Sentence

We were impressed by her mastery of the subject. She achieved a complete mastery of French. He struggled to gain mastery of his fears.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hernández’s mastery distinguishes him from Hollywood director Daniel Minahan, whose latest is On Swift Horses, another love story about romantic panic but without Hernández’s élan. Armond White, National Review, 25 Apr. 2025 Students in mixed-age studios set personal goals and demonstrate mastery through public exhibitions, not tests. Ray Ravaglia, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Thomas’ work throughout his tenure in San Francisco was nothing short of brilliant; his live performances were always assured and often astonishing, combining mastery with a keen sense of adventure. Georgia Rowe, Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2025 The space showcased an extensive collection of high jewelry watches, demonstrating Bulgari’s mastery in blending horology with haute jewelry. Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for mastery

Word History

Etymology

Middle English maistrie, from Anglo-French mestrie, maistrie, from meistre master

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of mastery was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mastery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastery. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

mastery

noun
mas·​tery ˈmas-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce mastery (audio)
plural masteries
1
: the position or authority of a master
2
3
: skill or knowledge that makes one master of something : command
a mastery of French

More from Merriam-Webster on mastery

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