property-master

The property-master places a silver candlestick on the dining room table.

Definition

Noun: A "property-master" (also spelled "property master") is the person responsible for acquiring, managing, and maintaining all props (objects used on stage or screen) for a theatrical production, film, or television show. The property-master ensures that each prop is available, in proper condition, and correctly placed for use during performances or filming.

Usage Examples

• (The person in charge of stage props tracked all objects.)
• (The prop manager verified the prop's placement.)
• (The prop manager enhances realism through prop selection.)

Advanced Usage

• "Property-master’s plot": A detailed list or diagram showing where each prop is placed during a production.

  • The property-master’s plot helped the stage crew set up the props quickly. (The prop manager's chart guided the setup.)

• "To work under the property-master": To assist in prop management as a junior crew member.

  • She started her career working under the property-master on a Broadway show. (She began as an assistant to the prop manager.)

Variants and Related Words

• Property-manager (n): A synonym for property-master, sometimes used in film and television contexts.

  • The property-manager ordered custom-made swords for the film. (The prop manager arranged for specialized props.)

• Props (n): Short for "properties"; the objects used in a production, managed by the property-master.

  • The props included a fake cake and a rubber snake. (The items used on stage.)

• Prop (n): A single object used in a production.

  • The prop was a simple wooden chair. (A single stage object.)

Synonyms

• Prop master: A more casual, abbreviated term for property-master.
• Props manager: A synonym emphasizing the managerial aspect of the role.

Related Idioms

• "Hands-on property-master": A property-master who personally builds or modifies props.

  • She is a hands-on property-master, often painting the fake fruit herself. (She actively creates props.)

• "Property-master’s nightmare": A situation where props are lost, broken, or misplaced.

  • Losing the key prop before the final scene was a property-master’s nightmare. (A worst-case scenario for the prop manager.)