taskmaster

noun

task·​mas·​ter ˈtask-ˌma-stər 

: one that imposes a task or burdens another with labor

Synonyms

• boss
• leader
• foreman
• master
• captain
• chief
• manager

Examples of taskmaster in a Sentence

pitiless taskmaster that he was, Ebenezer Scrooge only reluctantly let his ill-paid clerk have Christmas Day off

known as a tough but fair taskmaster

Recent Examples on the Web

Basketball is a merciless taskmaster, demanding an almost inhuman tally of hours to perfect. —Devon Henderson, Oc Register, 16 Aug. 2025

The Scot is a tough taskmaster and will want more, both in the market before the end of the window, and from his side this season. —Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2025

In a world where everyone manages both people and agents, the manager is less a taskmaster and more a context-setter. —Nirit Cohen, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

Provide coaching and mentorship so managers become inspiring guides rather than just taskmasters. —Melanie Hughes, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for taskmaster

• bandmaster
• broadcaster
• cadastre
• disaster
• forecaster
• headmaster
• newscaster
• paymaster
• pilaster
• postmaster
• roadmaster
• schoolmaster

Kids Definition

taskmaster

noun

task·​mas·​ter -ˌmas-tər 

: one that assigns a task or burdens another with labor