- Given to playing the master; imperious or domineering.
- Fit to command.
- Revealing mastery or skill; expert: a masterful technique; masterful moviemaking.
masterfulness mas'ter·ful·ness n.
USAGE NOTE According to a widely repeated dictum, masterful should be reserved for the sense “imperious, domineering” (as in a masterful tone of voice), whereas masterly should be the choice when the intended sense is “having the skill of a master” (as in a masterly performance of the sonata). The distinction can serve a useful purpose, but masterful in the latter sense has long been common in reputable writing and cannot be regarded as incorrect.




