hovimestarin

Hovimestarin is a term of Swedish origin that translates to "majordomo" or "steward." Historically, a hovimestarin was a high-ranking official in a royal court or a noble household. Their responsibilities were extensive and varied, often encompassing the management of the household's staff, finances, and overall operations. This role required a significant degree of trust and organizational skill, as the hovimestarin acted as a key intermediary between the noble or royal family and the rest of the household.

The duties of a hovimestarin could include overseeing the provision of food and drink, managing servants, ensuring the upkeep of the residence, and sometimes even handling diplomatic or social engagements on behalf of their employer. In essence, they were responsible for the smooth functioning of the domestic sphere. The specific tasks and the level of authority held by a hovimestarin would depend on the size and wealth of the household they served. While the term is less common in modern usage, it harks back to a period where such positions were integral to the structure of aristocratic life.