maestro

noun

mae·​stro ˈmī-(ˌ)strō How to pronounce maestro (audio)
plural maestros or maestri ˈmī-ˌstrē How to pronounce maestro (audio)
Synonyms of maestronext
: a master usually in an art
especially : an eminent composer, conductor, or teacher of music

Examples of maestro in a Sentence

a maestro of the violin
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.
Music director Delta David Gier will celebrate his 22nd year as maestro of the century-old orchestra. Angela George, Sioux Falls Argus Leader, 4 Feb. 2026 During the conversation, the hair maestro — who styles Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez and Ariana Grande — shared that Kitty helps keep him in touch with the latest trends. Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026 Saturday’s all-day schedule features sets by zydeco accordion maestro Ruben Moreno, Cajun standard bearers the Riley Family Band with David Greely and Sam Broussard, and soulful accordionist/vocalist Geno Delafose, scion of a zydeco dynasty. Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 22 Jan. 2026 After just one ceremony, Rivera applied to be the maestro’s apprentice. Mattha Busby, Rolling Stone, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for maestro

Word History

Etymology

Italian, literally, master, from Latin magister — more at master

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of maestro was in 1607

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maestro.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maestro. Accessed 9 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

maestro

noun
mae·​stro ˈmī-strō How to pronounce maestro (audio)
plural maestros or maestri -ˌstrē How to pronounce maestro (audio)
: a master of an art and especially of music
Etymology

from Italian maestro, literally "master," from Latin magister "master, one who holds a higher political office" — related to magistrate, master

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