madam

Everyday

1. (polite) Madam is a polite way to speak to a woman whose name you do not know, used by shop staff, waiters and in letters: «Dear Madam». tree →
2. Madam is used before a title when speaking to a woman in an important job: Madam Chair, Madam President. tree →
3. (UK, informal) A little madam is a girl who is bossy, cheeky or spoilt. tree →

In the lessons

In shops and restaurants: «Can I help you, madam?» In formal letters: «Dear Sir or Madam». At home (UK): «Don't you speak to me like that, young madam!»

Examples

• «Can I take your coat, madam?» asked the waiter. tree →
• I began my letter with «Dear Sir or Madam». tree →
• Thank you, Madam Speaker. tree →
• Gran called my sister a little madam when she sulked. tree →
• «This way, madam,» said the usher. tree →
• Excuse me, madam, you dropped your glove. tree →

Note

Matching word for men: sir. «Ma'am» is a short form, very common in the USA and used for the Queen or King's family in the UK. Do not say «Madam Smith» in everyday English; use «Mrs/Ms Smith».