masterstroke

noun

mas·​ter·​stroke ˈma-stər-ˌstrōk How to pronounce masterstroke (audio)
: a masterly performance or move

Examples of masterstroke in a Sentence

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The addition of Gauthier via trade from Philly has proven a masterstroke, while former New York Rangers like Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba (both have three-game point streaks) have proven to be shrewd acquisitions. Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 5 Nov. 2025 Acquiring him for Mitch Haniger (since released by the Seattle Mariners) and Anthony DeSclafani was something of a masterstroke for Farhan Zaidi. Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 Despite being less tightly curated and neatly packaged as the first game, Hades II is an absolute masterstroke. Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2025 But the comedy masterstroke is Lilith’s maneuvering to take an Uber home on her mother’s account. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for masterstroke

Word History

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of masterstroke was in 1679

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Cite this Entry

“Masterstroke.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masterstroke. Accessed 13 Nov. 2025.

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