mastery

noun

mas·​tery ˈma-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce mastery (audio)
Synonyms of masterynext
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.
But, as academic mastery has become secondary to political consciousness, students are no longer being molded into informed citizens so much as into ideological foot soldiers. Courtney Corbello, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026 He is known for his mastery of natural glazes, mentorship of other artists, and dedication to a humble life despite his professional success. Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 3 Apr. 2026 Each piece of wood, in varying shades and shapes, was plopped down one by one to bring the piece to life, resulting in an almost hypnotic design that shows off true marquetry mastery. Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 31 Mar. 2026 If worthiness is defined only by mastery of texts, then the exams are sufficient. Rabba Sara Hurwitz, Sun Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026 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 5 Apr. 2026.

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

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