past mistress

noun

1. a woman who is thoroughly experienced or exceptionally skilled in a profession, art, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of past mistress¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

The assaults she made upon his fidelity proved her to be past-mistress of tactics and strategy.

From Project Gutenberg

Already you are past-mistress on the subject of vases and statues.

From Project Gutenberg

She was past-mistress of the entrechat and other mysteries of the ballet academy.

From Project Gutenberg

She was past-mistress of the canoeist's difficult art, and her canoe flew on as though drawn away into the dark on unseen cords.

From Project Gutenberg

Patricia was a past-mistress in the art of ignoring what she considered inconvenient, or personal, remarks.

From Project Gutenberg