English Explanatory Dictionary

masterly

English dictionary entry

Meanings

adj
  1. Executed in the manner of a master; showing competence and skill; masterful.
  2. Like a master; arbitrary; domineering, imperious.
adv
  1. In a masterful manner; competently, masterfully.

Pronunciation

/ˈmɑːstəli/ /ˈmæ-/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-I learned some phrases-masterly.wav /ˈmæstɚli/

Word forms

masterly more masterly most masterly masterlie

Etymology

PIE word *méǵh₂s From Middle English maisterli, from maister (“leader, ruler; high official; official in charge of a place; person in control; employer; owner; schoolmaster, teacher; scholar, sage; holder of a master's degree; religious teacher; master craftsman; expert; magician; social superior; husband; lover; Jesus Christ; a god; male stud animal”) + -li (suffix forming adjectives). Maister is derived from Old English mæġester (“master”) and Old French maistre (“master”) (modern French maître), both from Latin magister (“teacher; master”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *méǵh₂s (“big, great”). The English word is analysable as master + -ly.

Synonyms

maestrolike masterlike masterous able artful habile accomplished adept adroit apt capable competent consummate conversant crack crafty deft dexterous expert facile fluent gain handy masterful masterly professional proficient qualified quick ready skilled skillful thoroughbred tight practiced versed despotic overbearing expertly skilfully

Derived words

masterliness masterly inactivity
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