matador

[ mat-uh-dawr ]

noun

1. the principal bullfighter in a bullfight who passes the bull with a muleta and then, in many countries, kills it with a sword thrust; a torero.
2. one of the principal cards in skat and certain other games.
3. (initial capital letter) a jet-powered U.S. surface-to-surface missile.

matador

/ ˈmætədɔː /

noun

1. the principal bullfighter who is appointed to kill the bull
2. (in some card games such as skat) one of the highest ranking cards
3. a game played with dominoes in which the dots on adjacent halves must total seven

Word History and Origins

Origin of matador¹

1665–75; < Spanish, equivalent to mata ( r ) to kill (perhaps < Vulgar Latin *mattāre, presumed derivative of Late Latin mattus soft, weak; matte ¹ ) +- dor -tor

Word History and Origins

Origin of matador¹

C17: from Spanish, from matar to kill

Example Sentences

The matador as an artist is an established idea within the bullfighting community.

From BBC

When the parade of the afternoon’s three matadors and their bullfighting entourage finally emerged to salute the fans, the arena in Mexico City erupted.

From New York Times

It was a statement of defiance, like a matador dressing for the bull ring.

From Literature

We will see a Charlo that will attempt to use his speed, and move in and out and try to keep Álvarez at distance — a matador trying to keep the Mexican bull at bay.

From Los Angeles Times

Flamboyant ticks and leaves like a matador goading a bull.

From BBC