Dictionary sireRespectful address

noun

sire

An old respectful form of address for a king or lord.

Your carriage is ready, sire, and the guards await your orders.

Etymology

sireOld Frenchlord

The French title means lord. English retained it as a ceremonious address acknowledging a king's or other superior's authority.

More examples

The council awaits your decision, sire.
Do you wish to receive the ambassador now, sire?
I bring news from the border, sire.

Forms

sire

Similar words

sir: Respectfully addresses a man without implying he is a monarch.
lord: Addresses a nobleman directly, usually in the phrase 'my lord.'