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

• 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

Not every house is by a marquee name, yet many carry the marks of mastery—confident, crafted and unconventional. —Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025

Lehrer displayed a similar level of mastery in his academic life. —Edward Segarra, USA Today, 28 July 2025

Inherent to the task of teaching is the responsibility to keep pursuing mastery—and the opportunity to see the outdoors and all its wonder through a fresh set of eyes. —Wes Siler, Outside Online, 23 July 2025

This emotionally rich song underscores King’s mastery of classic country storytelling and further cements his place in country music’s canon of neo-traditional country music makers. —Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 21 July 2025

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