maestro

noun

mae·​stro ˈmī-(ˌ)strō How to pronounce maestro (audio)
plural maestros or maestri ˈmī-ˌstrē How to pronounce maestro (audio)
Synonyms of maestronext
: a master usually in an art
especially : an eminent composer, conductor, or teacher of music

Synonyms of maestro

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Examples of maestro in a Sentence

a maestro of the violin
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Opera is a classic Argento giallo and one of the genre maestro’s last great films. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 9 June 2026 In a nod to the maestro for which the dish is named, Bottura says that pairing with Sauternes is like composing music. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 21 June 2026 The Argentine maestro has taken his sweet time over it, though, having played 28 games across six tournaments. — Matt Slater, New York Times, 23 June 2026 Argentina capped the night with a shutout against Algeria and with all three goals belonging to their maestro, as Messi reminded the world of his unique talents. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for maestro

Word History

Etymology

Italian, literally, master, from Latin magister — more at master

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of maestro was in 1607

Browse Nearby Words

maestral
maestro
maestro di cappella
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Maestro.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maestro. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

maestro

noun
mae·​stro ˈmī-strō How to pronounce maestro (audio)
plural maestros or maestri -ˌstrē How to pronounce maestro (audio)
: a master of an art and especially of music
Etymology

from Italian maestro, literally "master," from Latin magister "master, one who holds a higher political office" — related to magistrate, master

More from Merriam-Webster on maestro

Nglish: Translation of maestro for Spanish Speakers

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