Stewardship Meaning

Stewardship

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care, particularly resources, property, or the environment.
2. The role or duties of a steward, especially in managing or overseeing a property, organization, or natural resource.
3. The responsibility to manage and preserve resources for the future.

History and Origin

The word “stewardship” originates from the Old English word stiward, meaning “household manager” or “guardian of the household,” which itself derives from stig (house) and weard (guard). The term evolved in medieval times to refer to a person who managed the estate of a lord. Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass broader responsibilities of management, especially of natural and communal resources.

Detailed Explanation

Stewardship refers to the practice of managing and taking care of resources, whether they be environmental, financial, or human resources. It involves a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that resources are used wisely and preserved for future generations. In a broader sense, stewardship can apply to ethical leadership, where individuals or organizations take responsibility for their actions and the impact those actions have on the community, environment, or society as a whole. In many cultures, stewardship is tied to a moral or ethical duty to care for the Earth and its inhabitants.

Example Sentences

1. The farmer’s commitment to good stewardship ensured the land remained fertile for future crops.
2. Environmental stewardship is vital to maintaining the health of our planet.
3. As a leader, he emphasized stewardship in managing the company’s resources wisely.
4. The community took on the stewardship of the local park to ensure it was well-maintained.
5. Effective financial stewardship helps an organization achieve long-term stability.
6. Many religious groups teach stewardship as a way to honor creation and preserve it.
7. The charity promotes stewardship by encouraging responsible giving and resource management.
8. His stewardship of the nonprofit led to greater impact in the community.
9. The company practices sustainable stewardship by reducing waste and conserving energy.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Management – The act of overseeing and handling resources or activities.
2. Custodianship – The responsibility for the care and preservation of something valuable.
3. Oversight – The action of supervising or managing something.
4. Governance – The act of governing or managing an organization, often involving stewardship of resources.
5. Conservation – The careful preservation and management of resources, particularly natural ones.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Sustainability – The practice of using resources in a way that preserves them for future generations.
2. Accountability – Being responsible for one’s actions, especially in managing resources.
3. Responsibility – A duty or obligation to manage or care for something.
4. Leadership – The ability to guide and manage an organization or group effectively.
5. Ethics – The moral principles guiding one’s actions, often tied to responsible stewardship.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Caretaking – The act of taking care of something, often linked to stewardship in terms of management.
2. Guidance – Providing direction or advice, especially in managing resources or actions.
3. Protection – Safeguarding something from harm, often related to environmental or resource stewardship.
4. Preservation – The act of keeping something in its original or best condition for future generations.
5. Maintenance – The upkeep or management of something to ensure its continued function and value.

Antonyms

1. Neglect
2. Mismanagement
3. Irresponsibility
4. Wastefulness
5. Exploitation