noun
madam
MAD-um/ˈmædəm/
A formal respectful address for a woman.
Welcome, madam; please come through the doorway.
Etymology
Literally “my lady,” madam first addressed a woman of rank or authority, including a household mistress. Its use broadened into a conventional respectful form of address for women generally.
In context
Madam, can you take the dollar bill? In the serial number, there is a letter.
"Dear Sir or Madam," or, "Dear Hiring Manager,"
More examples
- May I take your coat, madam?
- Thank you, Madam President, for answering my question.
- Dear Madam, I am writing to request a refund.
Forms
madam · madams · mesdames
Similar words
- ma'am
- A shortened form more common in everyday polite speech.
- miss
- Usually addresses a girl or younger woman rather than any woman.