missy

Everyday

1. (informal) A way of speaking to a young girl, often in a playful, teasing or slightly cross way: «Listen, missy!» tree →
2. (old use) A young lady; a miss. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and everyday life, a parent, grandparent or teacher might say «Now then, missy» when a girl is being cheeky. It can sound bossy or old-fashioned. Phrases: young missy, little missy.

Examples

• «Don't you talk back to me, missy!» said Grandma. tree →
• «Come along, little missy, time for bed.» tree →
• The shopkeeper winked: «What can I get for you, missy?» tree →
• «Listen here, young missy, homework first.» tree →
• Missy is also a nickname for girls named Melissa. tree →
• My uncle calls my sister «missy» when she bosses him around. tree →
• “There’s none can save you now, missy,” Mullins hissed jeeringly. tree →

Note

Informal; usually used to talk TO a girl, not about her. It can sound cross or patronising, so it is not polite to use with grown women. «Missy» can also be a name (a nickname for Melissa).