Steward Meaning

Steward

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A person who manages or looks after another’s property, finances, or affairs.
2. A person responsible for the care and management of resources, particularly in an organization or household.
3. An employee who serves passengers on a ship, aircraft, or train, responsible for their comfort and safety.

History and Origin

The term “steward” has its roots in Old English, where stiward referred to a household manager or guardian of the home, derived from stig (house) and weard (guard). It has evolved over time to describe someone who is responsible for managing or overseeing various types of resources or people, especially in contexts such as estates, organizations, or transportation. The role was formalized in medieval times, where stewards managed large estates on behalf of their lords.

Detailed Explanation

A steward is an individual who takes responsibility for managing or overseeing certain tasks, whether they are personal, organizational, or communal. In historical contexts, stewards were tasked with overseeing the estates or properties of wealthy landowners, ensuring that resources were used efficiently. In modern times, the role of a steward has expanded to include management in various sectors, such as hospitality, travel, and environmental conservation. The term also refers to someone who serves others, ensuring their well-being, such as a flight attendant or a server on a cruise. Stewards are expected to act responsibly and often work to ensure that resources are used sustainably and effectively.

Example Sentences

1. The steward ensured that all the guests at the banquet were well cared for.
2. The estate steward was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the property.
3. As a steward of the environment, she worked tirelessly to promote conservation efforts.
4. The steward on the plane offered refreshments and assistance to the passengers.
5. He was hired as the steward of the new community center, tasked with managing its operations.
6. The steward of the local park ensured that it was always clean and well-maintained.
7. They appointed a steward to oversee the finances of the charity.
8. The hotel steward made sure the rooms were prepared and stocked for incoming guests.
9. As a steward of public resources, he was committed to transparency and accountability.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Manager – A person who oversees and directs the activities and operations of a business or organization.
2. Caretaker – A person responsible for taking care of a place or property, ensuring its maintenance.
3. Supervisor – Someone who oversees workers or operations to ensure tasks are completed correctly.
4. Guardian – A person responsible for the protection and management of something valuable, often used in legal contexts.
5. Attendant – A person who assists or serves others, particularly in hospitality or travel settings.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Leadership – The ability to manage, guide, and influence others in an organization or group.
2. Responsibility – The duty to manage or care for something, often linked to the role of a steward.
3. Conservation – The act of protecting and managing resources, often a key responsibility of a steward.
4. Oversight – The action of supervising or managing an operation, similar to stewardship.
5. Custodian – A person responsible for maintaining and protecting something, often used for buildings or resources.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Host – A person who organizes and manages an event or gathering, often ensuring guests are well taken care of.
2. Administrator – A person responsible for managing the operations and resources of an organization.
3. Conductor – A person who directs or manages the operation of a vehicle, such as a train, or the performance of a group, like a musical ensemble.
4. Organizer – A person who plans and arranges events, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
5. Coordinator – A person who organizes activities and ensures that all elements work together.

Antonyms

1. Neglect
2. Mismanager
3. Exploiter
4. Mishandler
5. Irresponsible