Master Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Master, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Master?

(n) Master is the employer, or the expert who is responsible for all the actions of the person employed by him or assisting him by virtue of his authority, while doing such acts entrusted to them

History and Definition of Master

The term "master" has origins in the Middle Ages when it referred to the head of a household or the person in authority. In modern legal contexts, the term "master" has several meanings, but the most common use is as an employer. A master is responsible for the actions of their employees or assistants by virtue of their authority. In other words, a master is someone who has control over another person's actions while performing tasks that the master has entrusted to them.

Examples of Master

  1. In a workplace, the employer may be referred to as the master, and the employees as their apprentices or assistants.
  2. An instructor in martial arts or other combat sports can be considered a master.
  3. A ship captain or pilot is considered the master of the vessel, responsible for the actions and safety of the crew and passengers.
  4. In the legal context, a judge is sometimes referred to as the master of the court.
  5. In the context of slavery, the slave owner was considered the master of their slaves.

Related Terms

  • Servant: A person who is employed by a master to perform tasks, with the master controlling their work and actions.
  • Principal: A person who employs an agent for a specific task or purpose, giving the agent authority to act on their behalf.
  • Contractor: A person or organization that contracts with another person or organization to perform a particular task or provide a service.