mastery

noun

mas·​tery ˈma-st(ə-)rē 

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

Synonyms of mastery

• proficiency

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

Other jewelers put the spotlight on their technical chops, expanding their mastery of traditional metalworking and gem-setting with new ideas or tools. —Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 20 Feb. 2026

Students work to achieve mastery, or a 90% and above score, before proceeding to the next grade level. —Erick Trevino, AZCentral.com, 18 Feb. 2026

Pupping, founder and director of the Encinitas Guitar Orchestra (now in its 23rd season), brings his eclectic mastery of classical, jazz, world music, rock, and pop, honed through studies with members of the legendary Los Romeros Guitar Quartet. —News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026

Moments of success in a task or activity, known as mastery experiences, can help people believe in their abilities. —Greg Edwards, The Conversation, 16 Feb. 2026

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

Phrases Containing mastery

• self-mastery

Kids Definition

mastery

noun

mas·​tery ˈmas-t(ə-)rē 

plural masteries

1

: the position or authority of a master

2

: victory

3

: skill or knowledge that makes one master of something : command

a mastery of French