past mistress

a woman who is thoroughly experienced or exceptionally skilled in a profession, art, etc.

QUIZZES

Have the Words of the Day from October 19–25, 2020, made an indelible mark on your memory? Take the quiz to find out!

Question 1 of 7

What does “clement” mean?

First recorded in 1865–70

The American girl is past-mistress in the art of turning to account her little capital of beauty, youth, and virtue.
Jonathan and His Continent|Max O'Rell
She was a past-mistress in the arts of scandal-mongering, nagging, and back-biting.
A Woman's Burden|Fergus Hume
Patricia was a past-mistress in the art of ignoring what she considered inconvenient, or personal, remarks.
Patricia|Emilia Elliott
The assaults she made upon his fidelity proved her to be past-mistress of tactics and strategy.
The Boss of Little Arcady|Harry Leon Wilson

Already you are past-mistress on the subject of vases and statues.
Letters to an Unknown|Prosper Mrime