Complete control or thorough knowledge and skill in a particular subject or activity. In educational contexts, it indicates a deep, comprehensive understanding that enables application and transfer of learning.
From Old French 'maistrie,' from 'maistre' (master), ultimately from Latin 'magister' meaning teacher or chief. The word evolved to emphasize dominion and expert knowledge rather than just authority over others.
The word 'master' originally meant 'teacher' - a 'magister' in Latin! So mastery isn't about dominating something, but about knowing it so well you could teach it to others, like a true magister.
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