Mistress

/ˈmɪstrəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A woman who has control or authority over someone or something.

As the mistress of the house, she made all the decisions regarding the household staff.

A woman who is in a relatively permanent sexual relationship with a man who is married to someone else.

He was often seen with his mistress, despite having a wife at home.

A female teacher or instructor.

The students were eager to impress their new mistress with their knowledge.

A title formerly used for a woman of authority or control.

The townspeople referred to her as 'Mistress' due to her significant influence in the community.

From Old French 'maistresse', from Latin 'magistra', feminine of 'magister' meaning 'master'.

kept mistress

A woman who is maintained by a man, often financially.

mistress of ceremonies

A woman who presides over a ceremony or event.

mistress of the house

A woman who manages the domestic affairs.

mistress of shadows

A term often used in literature to refer to a woman of mystery or intrigue.

master

A man who has control or authority over something.

domina

A title of respect for a female head or leader.

concubine

A woman who lives with a man but is not legally married, often with lower status.

Side piece

He referred to her as his side piece since she was his mistress.

Main squeeze

Though she was the main squeeze, he still kept a mistress on the side.