major-domo
/'meidʤə'doumou/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - The chief steward or butler of a large household or estate: A major-domo is the head servant responsible for managing the domestic staff, household operations, and sometimes the finances of a grand residence, such as a mansion or palace. The role historically involved significant authority and oversight.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The major-domo oversaw the preparations for the duke's grand banquet.
- In the absence of the lord, the major-domo was entrusted with the keys to the estate.
- She hired a major-domo to manage her extensive staff and daily household affairs.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically in modern contexts to describe someone who manages complex operations or logistics, though this is an extended, figurative use.
- In our office, she acts as the major-domo, coordinating all the project logistics and team schedules.
Variants and Related Words
- Steward (n): A person who manages another's property or financial affairs; a ship's officer in charge of provisions. (A more general term).
- Butler (n): The chief male servant of a household, usually in charge of the wine cellar, dining room, and pantry. (A role with more specific duties than a major-domo).
- Majordomo (n): An alternative, less common spelling of "major-domo".
Synonyms
- Chief steward
- Head butler
- House manager
- Estate manager
Related Phrases
- To act as a major-domo: To take on the role of managing and organizing affairs, often in a detailed and authoritative manner.
- For the community event, he volunteered to act as a major-domo, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Related Idioms
- To play the major-domo: To assume control over organizing an event or situation, often with an air of formality or authority.
- Whenever we have guests, my brother loves to play the major-domo, directing everyone where to sit.
Noun
- the chief steward or butler of a great household