Stewardship definition Meaning and Definition
Stewardship definition
Pronunciation
/ˈstjuːədʃɪp/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A stewardship definition refers to the responsible management and care of resources, assets, or properties, such as land, finances, or relationships, on behalf of others, often with a goal of preserving, enhancing, or generating value over time.
Examples
1. “The company’s sustainability report highlights its stewardship efforts in reducing waste and emissions.”
2. “As a trustee, she is responsible for the financial stewardship of the charitable foundation.”
Synonyms
1. Guardianship
2. Custodianship
Antonyms
1. Neglect
2. Abuse
Additional Information
Stewardship involves a sense of accountability and duty to preserve and enhance resources, assets, or properties for the benefit of others, often with a long-term perspective. It is an essential aspect of responsible leadership, management, and decision-making in various contexts, including business, finance, environment, and social welfare. Stewardship requires a balance between short-term needs and long-term sustainability.
The concept of stewardship has evolved over time, influenced by philosophical, social, and environmental factors. It has become a key principle in modern organizational management, emphasizing the importance of considering the impact of decisions on stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, and the environment.
The Bible and other spiritual texts also emphasize the concept of stewardship, encouraging individuals to manage their resources and talents responsibly and with a sense of gratitude and respect for the creator. This spiritual perspective on stewardship promotes a sense of responsibility, compassion, and wisdom in managing resources.
Effective stewardship requires strong leadership, effective communication, and a commitment to transparency and accountability. It also involves a willingness to adapt and learn from mistakes, as well as a capacity for collaboration and partnerships with other stakeholders.
Several industries and sectors, such as environmental conservation, social impact investing, and corporate social responsibility, have emerged in response to the growing emphasis on stewardship. These sectors seek to promote sustainable practices, reduce environmental degradation, and enhance social well-being.
Etymology
The word ‘stewardship’ originated from the Old English word ‘steward’, meaning a servant or manager of a household or estate. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings related to responsible management and care of resources, assets, or properties.
Usage Notes
The term ‘stewardship’ is often used in formal and professional contexts, such as business, finance, and environmental management. In these settings, it is essential to use the word accurately and consistently to convey the relevant meaning and level of responsibility.
Cultural References
The concept of stewardship has appeared in various literary works, including Aldo Leopold’s book “A Sand County Almanac,” which explores the intersection of ecology and economics.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions related to stewardship include ‘good steward,’ ‘ bad steward,’ and ‘spiritual stewardship.’
Collocations
1. Social responsibility
2. Financial management
Frequency of Use
The word ‘stewardship’ is increasingly used in modern language, particularly in formal and professional settings, as people become more aware of the importance of responsible resource management and care for the environment and society.
Common Misspellings
1. Steardship
2. Stewardship definition (note: not a spelling error, but an example of how the word is often used)