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Stewardship

STOO-erd-ship /ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/

nounC1GRESAT

formal

The job of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or property.

In the context of philanthropy, stewardship refers to the responsible planning and management of resources (money, assets, environment) entrusted to one's care, often with a long-term perspective and a sense of moral obligation to future generations or the original donor's intent.

The story behind the word. The word 'stewardship' comes from 'steward,' which originated in Old English as 'stīweard,' a compound of 'stī' (house, hall) and 'weard' (guardian). So, a steward was originally a 'house-guardian' or manager of an estate. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the responsible management of any resources, particularly those belonging to others or held in trust.

Word relationships

Custodianship: The state of being a custodian; care and protection.
Guardianship: The position of being a guardian; protection.

Neglect: Failure to properly care for something.
Mismanagement: Poor or incompetent handling of something.

Word family

steward (noun): A person who manages another's property or financial affairs; one who supervises.

Collocations

environmental stewardship
financial stewardship
good stewardship
responsible stewardship
stewardship committee

Example sentences

"Environmental stewardship is crucial for preserving our planet's natural resources for future generations." Discussing environmental responsibility.
"The board of trustees takes its financial stewardship of the university's endowment very seriously, ensuring its growth and ethical investment." Explaining the responsibility of managing an endowment.

Memory hook

A 'STEWARD' takes 'SHIP' (responsibility) for managing resources. Responsible management

When not to use

While it can apply to any management, 'stewardship' often carries a connotation of moral responsibility and careful, long-term care, especially of resources not strictly 'owned' but 'managed for others'.

Fun facts

The role of a 'steward' was historically significant in large households and on ships, where they managed provisions and personnel.
In many religious traditions, 'stewardship' refers to the belief that humans are responsible for managing God's creation.