master of ceremonies: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Professional, Entertainment
Quick answer
What does “master of ceremonies” mean?
A person who acts as host and introduces speakers, performers, or manages the flow of events at a formal ceremony, banquet, or entertainment programme.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person who acts as host and introduces speakers, performers, or manages the flow of events at a formal ceremony, banquet, or entertainment programme.
A term for someone who presides over an event, ensuring it runs smoothly; often abbreviated as MC. In modern contexts, especially in hip-hop, an MC is a rapper or performer who engages the crowd.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is equally standard in both varieties. 'MC' as a verb (to MC an event) is slightly more common in American English, but fully understood in British English.
Connotations
In both varieties, the full term is formal. 'MC' alone can be neutral (event host) or carry subcultural connotations (hip-hop artist) depending on context.
Frequency
The full term is moderately frequent in formal writing. The abbreviation 'MC' is highly frequent in entertainment and media contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “master of ceremonies” in a Sentence
[Master of Ceremonies] + [VERB] + [EVENT] (e.g., The master of ceremonies hosted the gala.)[EVENT] + [with] + [Master of Ceremonies] (e.g., The banquet with a master of ceremonies was more engaging.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “master of ceremonies” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She was asked to master of ceremonies the charity auction.
- He will master of ceremonies the annual dinner.
American English
- She's going to MC the awards show next week.
- He MC'd the concert brilliantly.
adjective
British English
- The master-of-ceremonies role requires poise.
- He has a master-of-ceremonies style of speaking.
American English
- She gave a perfect master-of-ceremonies performance.
- His MC duties kept him busy all night.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used for formal corporate events, award ceremonies, and conferences.
Academic
Rare; might appear in descriptions of formal university ceremonies.
Everyday
Used when discussing weddings, local award nights, or community events.
Technical
Used in event planning, broadcasting, and entertainment industry jargon.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “master of ceremonies”
- Incorrectly pluralising as 'masters of ceremony' (should be 'masters of ceremonies' or 'master of ceremonies' for the role).
- Using 'MC' as a formal title in very traditional written contexts where the full term is expected.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'master of ceremonies' is typically a more formal, official role with responsibility for the event's structure and protocol, often involving introductions and transitions. A 'host' can be more general, possibly including social interaction with guests.
Yes, 'emcee' originated as a phonetic respelling of the initials 'M.C.' and is now a standard synonym, used especially in North America as both a noun and a verb.
Yes, absolutely. While the term contains 'master', it is a fixed, gender-neutral job title. The traditional female equivalent 'mistress of ceremonies' is now archaic and rarely used.
The standard plural is 'masters of ceremonies'. When abbreviating, the plural of 'MC' is usually 'MCs' (e.g., 'There were three MCs for the event').
A person who acts as host and introduces speakers, performers, or manages the flow of events at a formal ceremony, banquet, or entertainment programme.
Master of ceremonies is usually formal, professional, entertainment in register.
Master of ceremonies: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɑːstər əv ˈsɛrɪməniz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmæstər əv ˈsɛrəˌmoʊniz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Steal the show from the master of ceremonies”
- “A master of ceremonies born, not made”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MASTER who is in charge of the CEREMONIES. He MASTERs the order of events.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONDUCTOR OF AN ORCHESTRA (someone who directs and coordinates various parts to create a harmonious whole).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the abbreviation 'MC' LEAST likely to refer to a traditional 'master of ceremonies'?