noun
memsahib
noun
1
A historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address.
"The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India."
How to Use Memsahib
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old colonial-era title for a European woman in India — now mainly seen in historical or literary contexts.
When to use it
A historical term tied to British colonial India; it can carry uncomfortable colonial connotations in modern use.
Word Forms
memsahibs plural
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The novel is narrated from the perspective of a _____ in 1920s India.
Etymology
A blend of "ma'am" and "sahib" (a respectful Indian term for a man of authority).