master of the revels: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Literary/Historical
Quick answer
What does “master of the revels” mean?
A person in charge of organizing and overseeing festivities, entertainment, or celebrations.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person in charge of organizing and overseeing festivities, entertainment, or celebrations.
Historically, an official title in the English royal household responsible for court entertainments; more broadly, anyone who takes charge of organizing social events or parties.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More commonly recognized in British English due to its historical roots in the English court. In American English, it is primarily used in historical contexts or as a literary allusion.
Connotations
In British English, it may evoke specific historical references (e.g., the Tudor court official). In American English, it is more likely to be used metaphorically or humorously.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, but slightly higher recognition in British English.
Grammar
How to Use “master of the revels” in a Sentence
[Person] was appointed master of the revels.The master of the revels oversaw [event].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “master of the revels” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He was asked to master-of-the-revels the annual gala, a role he took on with great enthusiasm.
American English
- She volunteered to master-of-the-revels the office holiday party, coordinating everything from decorations to entertainment.
adjective
British English
- His master-of-the-revels duties kept him busy throughout the festive season.
American English
- She took on a master-of-the-revels role for the community festival, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; might appear metaphorically in describing someone who organizes corporate events.
Academic
Used in historical studies of Tudor England or Renaissance court culture.
Everyday
Almost never used in casual conversation; might be employed humorously.
Technical
Specific term in historical scholarship referring to the royal office established in 1545.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “master of the revels”
- Using 'master of revels' without 'the' (incorrect: *master of revels).
- Confusing it with 'master of ceremonies' (which is a broader term for any event host).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a historical title from the English royal household, abolished in the 18th century. It is now used metaphorically or in historical contexts.
Historically, the title was held by men. In modern metaphorical usage, it can apply to anyone, though 'mistress of the revels' is sometimes used for women.
'Master of the revels' specifically implies organizing festive events or parties, often with a historical connotation. 'Master of ceremonies' is a broader term for someone who hosts or presides over any event, formal or informal.
The office was most prominent in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly during the Tudor and Stuart periods in England.
A person in charge of organizing and overseeing festivities, entertainment, or celebrations.
Master of the revels is usually formal/literary/historical in register.
Master of the revels: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɑːstər əv ðə ˈrɛvəlz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmæstər əv ðə ˈrɛvəlz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “play the master of the revels”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MASTER who REVELS in party planning—Master of the REVELS.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOCIAL ORGANIZATION IS A PERFORMANCE; THE ORGANIZER IS A DIRECTOR.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern usage of 'master of the revels'?