métier

[ mey-tyey, mey-tyey ]

noun

1. a field of work; occupation, trade, or profession.
2. a field of work or other activity in which one has special ability or training; forte.

métier

/ ˈmɛtɪeɪ /

noun

1. a profession or trade, esp that to which one is well suited
2. a person's strong point or speciality

Word History and Origins

Origin of métier¹

1785–95; < French; Old French mestier < Gallo-Romance *misterium, for Latin ministerium ministry

Word History and Origins

Origin of métier¹

C18: from French, ultimately from Latin ministerium service

Example Sentences

But kiss-and-tell gossip isn’t really Pacino’s métier.

From Los Angeles Times

Weber’s métier is working in industrial corridors in redlined neighborhoods helping communities of color heal from the effects of environmental and social ills, often a lengthy and collaborative process.

From New York Times

Already you anticipate that some of these interviews aren’t going to go Leonard’s way as Schrader’s métier, the language of self-excoriating doubt, finds voice.

From Los Angeles Times

“Steve Albini wasn’t interested in ‘perfecting’ a song or a performance: His métier was getting the best sound from the equipment and pressing ‘record,’” the Breeders bassist Josephine Wiggs said in a 2008 news release.

From New York Times

The giant wiener was created by Jen Catron and Paul Outlaw, married Brooklyn artists whose métier is often interactive, food-based spectaculars that also question the lore — and lure — of Americana.

From New York Times

Related Words

• craft
• field
• forte