maestro
“maestro” means “teacher” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
teacher
Also: schoolteacher
📝 In Action
El maestro de mi hijo es muy paciente.
A1My son's teacher is very patient.
La maestra nos enseñó a leer y escribir.
A2The teacher taught us to read and write.
master
Also: expert, virtuoso
📝 In Action
Picasso fue un maestro del cubismo.
B1Picasso was a master of Cubism.
Es un maestro en el arte de la negociación.
B2He is a master in the art of negotiation.
El carpintero es un verdadero maestro; su trabajo es impecable.
C1The carpenter is a true master; his work is flawless.
master
Also: main, principal
📝 In Action
Necesitamos la llave maestra para abrir todas las puertas.
B2We need the master key to open all the doors.
El plan maestro detalla cada fase del proyecto.
B2The master plan details every phase of the project.
Esa es la viga maestra que soporta todo el techo.
C1That is the main beam that supports the whole roof.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "maestro" in Spanish:
expert→main→master→principal→schoolteacher→teacher→virtuoso→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: maestro
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'maestra' as an adjective meaning 'main' or 'principal'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word `magister`, which meant 'chief, head, director, teacher.' It's the root of many words in English and other languages that have to do with being an expert or a leader.
First recorded: Around the 10th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the real difference between `maestro` and `profesor`?
The simplest rule of thumb is age group: `maestro/a` is for teachers of young children (preschool, primary school). `Profesor(a)` is for teachers of older students (high school, university). However, in some countries, `profesor` can be used more broadly, and `maestro` can be a title of great respect for any expert, not just a teacher.
Can I use `maestro` for a music teacher?
Absolutely! In the world of music, art, and skilled trades, `maestro` is very common. It's used for music teachers, conductors, famous painters, or expert craftspeople. In this case, it carries a strong sense of 'master' and respect.