steward

A steward is a person who manages something on behalf of others, typically overseeing property, resources, or arrangements. The role emphasizes service, accountability, and the safeguarding of assets rather than ownership.

The term originates from Old English stiward, meaning a guardian or manager of a household or estate. Over time, the word broadened to cover a range of administrative duties in organizations, institutions, and communities.

Stewards appear in many settings. In households and estates, a steward may supervise staff, handle finances, and coordinate daily operations. In hospitality and catering, stewards assist with service, inventory, and guest needs. In maritime and air travel contexts, a ship’s steward or airline steward attends to passengers, serves meals, and maintains supplies. In events and public gatherings, stewards help with crowd management, logistics, and safety. In religious or charitable organizations, stewards oversee property, fundraising, and related activities.

In modern usage, stewardship refers to the responsible management and protection of resources for current and future needs. The term also functions as a job title in specific fields, such as ship’s steward or hotel steward, and as a broader metaphor for careful governance and custodianship within organizations and communities.