quartermaster

[ kwawr-ter-mas-ter, -mah-ster ]

noun

1. Military. an officer charged with providing quarters, clothing, fuel, transportation, etc., for a body of troops.
2. Navy. a petty officer having charge of signals, navigating apparatus, etc.

quartermaster

/ ˈkwɔːtəˌmɑːstə /

noun

1. an officer responsible for accommodation, food, and equipment in a military unit
2. a rating in the navy, usually a petty officer, with particular responsibility for steering a ship and other navigational duties

Other Words From

• quarter·master·like adjective
• quarter·master·ship noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of quartermaster¹

First recorded in 1400–50, quartermaster is from late Middle English quarter maister. See quarter, master

Example Sentences

Champlain became a navigator early in life, and was also a quartermaster in the royal army in Brittany, from 1592 to 1598.

From Project Gutenberg

In a word, he had the gift of a great quartermaster-general rather than of a commander-in-chief.

From Project Gutenberg

In March 1649, a quartermaster named Boutholmey was tried by council of war for uttering impious expressions.

From Project Gutenberg

I have had very hard work with my returns, and my Quartermaster is getting old.

From Project Gutenberg

Sir George was busy scanning the country, and pointing out various spots to the Quartermaster-general.

From Project Gutenberg