monsieur

American  

[muhs-yur, muh-syœ] / məsˈyɜr, məˈsyœ /

noun

messieurs plural

1. the conventional French title of respect and term of address for a man, corresponding to Mr. or sir.

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monsieur British  

/ məsˈjɜː, məsjø /

noun

1. a French title of address equivalent to sir when used alone or Mr when placed before a name

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Etymology

Origin of monsieur

1490–1500; < French: literally, my lord (originally applied only to men of high station); see sire

Example Sentences

Croque monsieur is a French sandwich served hot with gooey, melted cheese.

From BBC • Jun. 27, 2025

“What is this monsieur from the U.N. talking about?” the Tunisian interior minister said in the interview Wednesday.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2023

Plus, the croque monsieur, but make it vegetarian and plant-based, and an egg salad sandwich that will transport you to Tokyo.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2022

There’s a counter for prepared items; some sandwiches like croque monsieur are cooked to order.

From New York Times • Jan. 24, 2022

“Oui, monsieur Un peu,” I answered, telling him that I spoke French a little bit.

From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson

Related Words

• mister