What does quartermaster mean?
A quartermaster is a military or naval officer responsible for the practical work of supply and administration. This includes obtaining and distributing food, clothing, equipment, fuel, and other necessities, as well as overseeing accommodation, stores, records, and sometimes transport. In a naval context, the ship's quartermaster traditionally manages provisions, cargo, and the accounting of onboard stores. The term can also appear in other large organizations for a senior official responsible for logistics. Although the work is often associated with combat forces, the quartermaster normally supports the whole institution by ensuring that personnel have what they need to operate effectively. The compound name reflects an older responsibility: the first quartermasters were officials connected with quarters and accommodation. Modern duties are much broader, making the position central to military readiness and administrative efficiency.
nounA military or naval officer responsible for administrative and supply duties, including provisions, equipment, accommodation, and the management of stores. The title is also used in other large organizations for an official in charge of logistics.
- A military officer responsible for logistics, supply, equipment, accommodation, and related administrative matters.
- A naval officer responsible for a ship's provisions, equipment, stores, and accounting.
"The quartermaster arranged fresh provisions and equipment for the troops before they departed."
"The quartermaster ensured that each unit received the correct supplies at the forward camp."
"The ship's quartermaster inspected the cargo and recorded the stores carried in the hold."
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one officer of this rank.
"The quartermasters coordinated deliveries across several military bases."
Literally a “master of quarters,” the quartermaster became the officer trusted to keep an entire force supplied and organized.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of quartermaster
Quartermaster is an English compound formed from quarter and master. Its earliest uses referred to an official responsible for quarters, especially in a royal household, and the modern military and naval sense developed from that earlier administrative role. The word therefore originally combined the idea of accommodation with the title of an official in charge, before acquiring its broader association with supply and logistics.
How quartermaster is actually used
Chiefly used in military, naval, and comparable organizational contexts. The specific duties and official title vary between countries and services; historically, the term has often been treated as a masculine title, though it can refer to an officer of any gender.