Word: Mistress

Pronunciation

/ˈmɪstrɪs/

Definitions

• Noun: A woman who has power, control, or authority over something; especially one in charge of a household or establishment. Example: “She was the mistress of her own destiny.”
• Noun (archaic or informal): A woman with whom a man has a long-term extramarital sexual relationship, often maintaining a continuing association. Example: “He kept a mistress in a house on the outskirts of town.”
• Noun (historical): A woman who employs servants or governs a household. Example: “The lord’s wife and his mistress both had separate responsibilities in managing the manor.”

Phrases

• “Mistress of ceremonies”: A woman who presides over a formal event, introducing speakers or performers.
• “Love mistress”: An archaic or literary term for a woman who is a lover outside of marriage.

Example Sentences

• Noun (authority): “She became the mistress of the art gallery after years of dedicated work.”
• Noun (extramarital relationship): “Despite his reputation, the affair with his mistress remained secret for many years.”
• Historical context: “The lady of the manor, acting as mistress, oversaw the daily operations and welfare of her estate’s inhabitants.”

Synonyms

• Paramour (in the context of an extramarital relationship)
• Lover (in a non-marital romantic relationship)
• Governess (historically, a woman in charge of a household)
• Companion (in some cases, referring to a long-term partner outside of marriage)