noun
ladyship
LAY-dee-shihp
Ladyship (noun) means a respectful title used to address or refer to a noblewoman, without stating her specific title. Example: “The butler bowed and said, "This way, your ladyship.”
noun
1
A respectful title used to address or refer to a noblewoman, without stating her specific title.
"The butler bowed and said, "This way, your ladyship.""
"Her ladyship was not pleased with the delay."
How to use ladyship
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal way of addressing or referring to a titled woman, similar to how "your lordship" is used for men.
Common pairings
your ladyship
her ladyship
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like ladyship.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- ladyships
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The butler bowed and said, "This way, your _____."
Etymology
From Middle English ladyschipe, built from lady plus the suffix -ship (as in "lordship" and "friendship").
Frequently asked questions
What does “ladyship” mean?
The word “ladyship” means a respectful title used to address or refer to a noblewoman, without stating her specific title. In plain terms, a formal way of addressing or referring to a titled woman, similar to how "your lordship" is used for men.
How do you pronounce “ladyship”?
“Ladyship” is pronounced LAY-dee-shihp (/ˈleɪ.di.ʃɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “ladyship” in a sentence?
Here is “ladyship” used in a sentence: “The butler bowed and said, "This way, your ladyship.".”
What part of speech is “ladyship”?
“Ladyship” is a noun.
Where does the word “ladyship” come from?
The word “ladyship” comes from Middle English. From Middle English ladyschipe, built from lady plus the suffix -ship (as in "lordship" and "friendship").
