taskmaster

[ task-mas-ter, tahsk-mah-ster ]

noun

1. a person whose function it is to assign tasks, especially burdensome ones, to others.
2. a person who supervises rigorously the work of others.

taskmaster

/ ˈtɑːskˌmɑːstə /

noun

1. a person, discipline, etc, that enforces work, esp hard or continuous work

   his teacher is a hard taskmaster

Derived Forms

• ˈtaskˌmistress, noun:feminine

Other Words From

• taskmaster·ship noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of taskmaster¹

First recorded in 1520–30; task + master

Example Sentences

Grateful Dead biographer David Browne wrote of Lesh, “Beneath that affable exterior lay a taskmaster and perfectionist.”

From Los Angeles Times

The studios used by TV shows RuPaul's Drag Race UK and Taskmaster will close next year.

From BBC

Mr Salmond described himself as a "tough taskmaster" when he was in charge of the government.

From BBC

“There’s also a great moral compass, it’s very strong, and there’s loyalty too. Even though he might be a taskmaster, he’s very loyal to his team.”

From Los Angeles Times

Kevin Sullivan, the professional wrestler known as “The Taskmaster” and the “Prince of Darkness,” has died at age 74, the World Wrestling Entertainment announced Friday morning.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• disciplinarian