masterful

• masterfull (archaic)

From Middle English maysterful, maistrefull, equivalent to master +‎ -ful.

masterful (comparative more masterful, superlative most masterful)

1. Of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.

   The brushwork on the skin tones was masterful.

2. In the manner of a master; very skillful.

   The masterful conducting ensured the orchestra gave of their best.

   • 2023 December 12, Sambhav Sankar, “A justice stewarding a Constitution”, in SCOTUSblog:

     But Newdow (who argued his own case despite having minimal legal training) did an unexpectedly masterful job at the lectern.

3. Having or showing the qualities of a master vis-a-vis a dependent or subordinate; authoritative; domineering.
   • 1847, Charlotte Brontë, chapter 14, in Jane Eyre, Rochester to Jane by the fire:

     ...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...

   • 1868-69, Louisa May Alcott, Little Women, Chapter 38:

     When John spoke in that masterful tone, Meg always obeyed, and never regretted her docility.

   • 1908, E. M. Forster, A Room with a View, Chapter 18, Lucy to Mr. Beebe about Cecil:

     ...it was that he is so masterful. I found that he wouldn't let me go my own way.

Historically, definition 3 of masterful (authoritative, domineering) has long been losing ground to definitions 1 and 2 (masterly, skillful). In nineteenth century US usage of masterful, definition 3 was almost always meant (10:1). In contemporary US usage, however, the situation is reversed: definitions 1 or 2 are usually meant (10:1).

• masterfully
• masterfulness

• masterly

• streamful