Muster Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of MUSTER

1

[+ object]

:

to work hard to find or get (courage, support, etc.)

• They pushed the car with all the strength they could muster.
• He finally mustered (up) the courage to ask her on a date.
• The country's leaders have been trying to muster (up) support for the war.
• They mustered (up) the 20 votes needed to pass the law.

2

:

to gather together (a group of people, soldiers, etc.) especially for battle or war

[+ object]

• muster an army

[no object]

• The soldiers mustered [=_gathered_] in the center of town.

Britannica Dictionary definition of MUSTER

[count]

:

a formal military gathering to examine or test soldiers

• a muster of soldiers

pass muster

:

to be judged as acceptable or good enough

• These excuses will not pass muster. [=they are not acceptable]
• His cooking could pass muster in an expensive French restaurant.