mas·ter·less \ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷lə̇s\adjective Etymology: Middle English maisterles, from maister master + -les -less 1. a.: lacking a master < a masterless horse > b.archaic: being without a master or other reputable means of livelihood : vagabond, vagrant < provided harsh punishments for sturdy vagabonds and masterless men > 2.obsolete: ungoverned, ungovernable • mas·ter·less·nessnoun-es