Definition of master
- n. - A vessel having (so many) masts; -- used only in compounds;
as, a two-master.
- n. - A male person having another living being so far subject to
his will, that he can, in the main, control his or its actions; --
formerly used with much more extensive application than now. (a) The
employer of a servant. (b) The owner of a slave. (c) The person to whom
an apprentice is articled. (d) A sovereign, prince, or feudal noble; a
chief, or one exercising similar authority. (e) The head of a
household. (f) The male head of a school or college. (g) A male
teacher. (h) The director of a number of persons performing a ceremony
or sharing a feast. (i) The owner of a docile brute, -- especially a
dog or horse. (j) The controller of a familiar spirit or other
supernatural being.
- n. - One who uses, or controls at will, anything inanimate; as,
to be master of one's time.
- n. - One who has attained great skill in the use or application
of anything; as, a master of oratorical art.
- n. - A title given by courtesy, now commonly pronounced mister,
except when given to boys; -- sometimes written Mister, but usually
abbreviated to Mr.
- n. - A young gentleman; a lad, or small boy.
- n. - The commander of a merchant vessel; -- usually called
captain. Also, a commissioned officer in the navy ranking next above
ensign and below lieutenant; formerly, an officer on a man-of-war who
had immediate charge, under the commander, of sailing the vessel.
- n. - A person holding an office of authority among the
Freemasons, esp. the presiding officer; also, a person holding a
similar office in other civic societies.
- v. t. - To become the master of; to subject to one's will,
control, or authority; to conquer; to overpower; to subdue.
- v. t. - To gain the command of, so as to understand or apply; to
become an adept in; as, to master a science.
- v. t. - To own; to posses.
- v. i. - To be skillful; to excel.