madam

American  

[mad-uhm] / ˈmæd əm /

noun

plural

mesdames, madams

1. (often initial capital letter) a polite term of address to a woman, originally used only to a woman of rank or authority.

   Madam President; May I help you, madam?

2. the woman in charge of a household.

   Is the madam at home?

3. the woman in charge of a house of prostitution.

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madam British  

/ ˈmædəm /

noun

1. a polite term of address for a woman, esp one considered to be of relatively high social status

2. a woman who runs a brothel

3. informal a precocious or pompous little girl

4. informal the lady of the house

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Etymology

Origin of madam

1250–1300; Middle English madame < Old French, originally ma dame my lady; dame

Example Sentences

“Pardon me, madam. Do you have any idea where Muffinshire Lane is? I believe there are likely to be fancy shops nearby?”

From Literature

"How would madam like her hair today?" teased Mrs Bennett, combing the hair of one of her four-year-old charges.

From BBC

These days they joke that Maya will call Kamala “big sister general” until she earns the title of madam president.

From Los Angeles Times

While on a call with me last week, he rang off saying "the madam" was calling.

From BBC

“You’ve gone the wrong way, madam,” he said, staring at Aunt Daisy’s huge diamond ring.

From Literature

Related Words

• madame