First Known Use: 1632
Dictionary
magisterial
adjective mag·is·te·ri·al \ˌma-jə-ˈstir-ē-əl\
: showing impressive knowledge about a subject
: having the confident quality of someone who expects to be obeyed by other people
: of or relating to a magistrate
Full Definition of MAGISTERIAL
1
a (1) : of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a master or teacher : authoritative (2) : marked by an overbearingly dignified or assured manner or aspect b : of, relating to, or required for a master's degree
2
: of or relating to a magistrate or a magistrate's office or duties
— mag·is·te·ri·al·ly \-ē-ə-lē\ adverb
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Origin of MAGISTERIAL
Late Latin magisterialis of authority, from magisterium office of a master, from magister
Related to MAGISTERIAL
- Synonyms
- authoritative, classic, classical, definitive
Synonym Discussion of MAGISTERIAL
dictatorial, magisterial, dogmatic, doctrinaire, oracular mean imposing one's will or opinions on others. dictatorial stresses autocratic, high-handed methods and a domineering manner <exercised dictatorial control over the office>. magisterial stresses assumption or use of prerogatives appropriate to a magistrate or schoolmaster in forcing acceptance of one's opinions <the magisterial tone of his pronouncements>. dogmatic implies being unduly and offensively positive in laying down principles and expressing opinions <dogmatic about what is art and what is not>. doctrinaire implies a disposition to follow abstract theories in framing laws or policies affecting people <a doctrinaire approach to improving the economy>. oracular implies the manner of one who delivers opinions in cryptic phrases or with pompous dogmatism <a designer who is the oracular voice of fashion>.
Rhymes with MAGISTERIAL
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