Mayordomo is a noun.
/mɑɪ̯oɾˈðomo/
Mayordomo refers to a person who has the responsibility for the supervision or management of a household, particularly in a formal setting. In many contexts, especially in historical or royal households, the mayordomo can be seen as a chief steward or butler, overseeing the staff and ensuring the household runs smoothly.
In Spanish-speaking countries, the term is used similarly across various contexts, but there might be nuances based on regional use. In Peru and Chile, it can often refer to the manager or overseer of any domain, such as farms (particularly agrarian settings), estates, and sometimes businesses.
The word is commonly found in both oral and written contexts, although it might lean more towards formal settings (written) than casual conversations. Its frequency of use may vary by region and context.
El mayordomo se encargó de organizar la cena del matrimonio.
The butler took charge of organizing the wedding dinner.
En la hacienda, el mayordomo tiene un papel crucial en la administración de la propiedad.
In the estate, the steward plays a crucial role in managing the property.
El mayordomo siempre sabe cómo atender a los invitados de manera profesional.
The butler always knows how to attend to guests in a professional manner.
The term mayordomo is not frequently used in a wide variety of idiomatic expressions, but it can be part of phrases that emphasize responsibility or hierarchy. Here are some examples:
"Ser el mayordomo de la situación."
"To be the steward of the situation."
This means to take control and responsibility for a particular circumstance.
"No hay mayordomo que no tenga su secreto."
"There is no butler who does not have his secret."
This implies that everyone has hidden aspects of their life or work, even those in positions of authority.
"El mayordomo siempre tiene una carta bajo la manga."
"The butler always has a card up his sleeve."
This suggests that a person in a position of management or power often has a hidden advantage or strategy.
"Actuar como el mayordomo del grupo."
"To act like the steward of the group."
This means to take on a leading or organizing role among peers.
The term mayordomo comes from the Late Latin māneārdōmus, which means "chief servant" or "head of household." The component "mayor" means larger or greater, while "domo" derives from "domus," meaning house. This signifies the higher status of the servant in charge of household management.
Synonyms: - Administrador (Administrator) - Jefe de mayordomos (Chief steward) - Sirviente (Servant) – in broader informal contexts.
Antonyms: - Dueño (Owner) - Empleado (Employee) – when referring to a position of lesser authority.