master of ceremonies

noun phrase

1

: a person who determines the forms to be observed on a public occasion

2

: a person who acts as host at a formal event

3

: a person who acts as host for a program of entertainment (as on television)

Examples of master of ceremonies in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mariska Hargitay served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. — Vogue, 15 Sep. 2026

Ramona’s 18th annual dog show was a way to celebrate a love for dogs, their friendship and the joy pets bring to people’s lives, according to master of ceremonies Chris Bertolero. — Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Sep. 2026

None other than Oprah was the master of ceremonies, someone who millions of Americans looked to for comfort, reassurance, and guidance. — Krystie Lee Yandoli, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

The gracious master of ceremonies gave me the place of honor in the line-up, directly behind him, with Reiffer and the two shikaris bringing up the rear. — Leslie E. Tassell, Outdoor Life, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for master of ceremonies

• cronies
• ponies
• testimonies

Kids Definition

master of ceremonies

: a person who acts as host at a formal event or on an entertainment program (as on television)