madam

The word “madam” means a polite, formal way to address a woman. In plain terms, a formal title for a woman, similar to "sir" for a man — with a separate, unrelated slang sense for a brothel-keeper.

“Madam” is pronounced MA-duhm (/ˈmædəm/ in IPA).

Here is “madam” used in a sentence: “Excuse me, madam, is this seat taken?”

“Madam” is a noun.

The word “madam” comes from Latin. From Old French madame, literally "my lady", from Latin mea domina.

“Madam” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Madam” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a polite, formal way to address a woman.

Madam is the full, more formal form of address, often used in writing, letters, and very formal speech, while ma'am is a shortened, spoken version common in everyday polite conversation. Both are used to address a woman respectfully without using her name.

No, madam is a polite and formal term of address and is not rude when used in the right context, such as customer service, formal letters, or addressing an unfamiliar woman respectfully. It can sound overly formal or even old-fashioned in very casual settings.

This is a separate, distinct sense of the word that developed from the polite address 'madam' being applied specifically to the woman in charge of such an establishment. Context makes clear which meaning is intended, since the polite address is by far the more common everyday use.

This is an informal, somewhat dated use where 'madam' describes a girl or woman who is acting bossy, spoiled, or full of herself. It is typically used in a mildly scolding or teasing way, often in British English.