masterful

Adjective

masterful (comparative more masterful, superlative most masterful)

1. Of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.
   • The brushwork on the skin tones was masterful.
2. In the manner of a master; very skillful.
   • The masterful conducting ensured the orchestra gave of their best.
   • As Washington Post reporter Barton Gellman showed in his brilliant biography, Cheney deployed his masterful knowledge of policymaking to exert influence at all levels of government.2016 July 11, Julian Zelizer, “The vice presidency is no longer a joke”, in CNN

   Synonyms:

   magistral

3. Having or showing the qualities of a master vis-à-vis a dependent or subordinate; authoritative; domineering.
   • ...do you not agree with me that I have a right to be a little masterful, abrupt; perhaps exacting, sometimes, on the grounds I stated...1847, Charlotte Brontë, chapter 14, in Jane Eyre, Rochester to Jane by the fire
   • When John spoke in that masterful tone, Meg always obeyed, and never regretted her docility.1868–1869, Louisa M[ay] Alcott, chapter 38, in Little Women: […], (please specify |part=1 or 2), Boston, Mass.: Roberts Brothers, →OCLC