major-domo

[ mey-jer-doh-moh ]

noun

, plural ma·jor-do·mos.

1. a man in charge of a great household, as that of a sovereign; a chief steward.
2. a steward or butler.
3. a person who makes arrangements for another.

major-domo

/ ˌmeɪdʒəˈdəʊməʊ /

noun

1. the chief steward or butler of a great household
2. facetious.
   a steward or butler

Word History and Origins

Origin of major-domo¹

1580–90; < Spanish mayordomo < Medieval Latin majordomūs head of the house, equivalent to major major + domūs, genitive of domus house; dome

Word History and Origins

Origin of major-domo¹

C16: from Spanish mayordomo, from Medieval Latin mājor domūs head of the household

Example Sentences

The Master of Ceremonies for the affair was dressed as the Royal Footman from Cinderella, Major Domo.

From The Daily Beast

The major-domo (for it was he) bowed respectfully, for the chief huntsman's name was well known in Anjou.

From Project Gutenberg

Guards were everywhere and peons rode ahead to inform the major-domo, and he came riding like devils to meet Doña Dolores Terain.

From Project Gutenberg

The dining room was almost empty and the major-domo quickly rushed to the side of the relaxed stranger in the richly cut clothes.

From Project Gutenberg

But I defy you to keep this from the Press, major domo: This is the most significant thing that has happened in our time.

From Project Gutenberg

The old colored man was quite seventy years of age, but still an erect and dignified major-domo.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• administrator
• attendant
• curator
• waiter