maestra
“maestra” means “teacher” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
teacher, schoolteacher
Also: tutor
📝 In Action
La maestra de español nos enseñó una canción nueva.
A1The Spanish teacher taught us a new song.
¿Conoces a la maestra Elena? Es muy paciente.
A2Do you know the teacher Elena? She is very patient.
Mi hermana quiere ser maestra de preescolar.
B1My sister wants to be a preschool teacher.
master craftswoman, forewoman
Also: expert
📝 In Action
Es una maestra en el arte de la cerámica tradicional.
B2She is a master in the art of traditional ceramics.
La maestra albañil supervisó la construcción del muro.
C1The forewoman mason supervised the construction of the wall.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: maestra
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'maestra' in the sense of a skilled expert?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *magistra*, which is the feminine form of *magister*, meaning 'master,' 'chief,' or 'director.' It has always been connected to authority and expertise.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (around the 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'maestra' and 'profesora'?
'Maestra' usually refers to a teacher in primary school (elementary school) or preschool. 'Profesora' is generally used for teachers in secondary school (high school) or university, or sometimes used as a more formal term for any teacher.
Can I use 'maestra' if the person doesn't teach in a school?
Yes! The word is often used figuratively or professionally to mean 'master' or 'expert.' For example, a 'maestra de ceremonias' is the MC, or a woman who is highly skilled at weaving might be called a 'maestra tejedora' (master weaver).