master
UK[ˈmɑːstə(r)]US[ˈmæstər]
n
A person who has control over others or over something.
n
A man who is very skilled in a particular art, activity, or job.
n
The original version of a recording or document from which copies are made.
v
To learn a skill or gain knowledge so that you can use it well.
adj
Main; most important.
Morpheme Breakdown
mast
er
mast
er
one who is a master
Etymology
The word 'master' originates from the Latin magister, meaning a chief, teacher, or director. This Latin term itself is built on the comparative element magis (more, greater), implying a position of superiority. It entered Old English via ecclesiastical and scholarly Latin as mæg(e)ster, later simplified to maister and finally master. The semantic journey reflects a shift from a formal title of control (e.g., master of servants) to a broader concept denoting supreme skill (e.g., master craftsman) or the authoritative original of something.
Analysis
Structure: mast + er
- mast: From Old English mæg(e)ster, from Latin magister (chief, teacher, director). The Latin root is a compound of magis (more, greater) + the comparative suffix -ter. This morpheme carries the core meaning of superior authority or skill.
- er: A Germanic agent noun suffix (Old English -ere), indicating a person who performs an action or has a certain quality. In this word, it reinforces the noun form meaning 'one who is a master'.
Examples
She is a master of negotiation.
He worked for years to master the violin.
Keep the master file in a secure location.