Mrs. Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Mrs.
[ˈmɪsɪz ]
Definition
form of address
Used before a married woman's surname or full name as a polite or formal way of addressing her.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Mrs. |
Used as a formal title for a married woman, often followed by her husband's last name or her own last name.
|
| madam |
A very formal and respectful way to address a woman, often used in written communication or in very formal spoken interactions. In some contexts, it can imply sarcasm if used incorrectly.
|
| ma'am |
Used as a respectful form of address for a woman, typically older or of higher status. Commonly used in customer service or formal settings.
|
| lady |
Used to refer to a woman in a polite or respectful way. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Sometimes implies a sense of elegance.
|
Examples of usage
- Mrs. Smith is our neighbor.
- Good morning, Mrs. Johnson.
- She is known as Mrs. Brown at work.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Using 'Mrs.' can reflect traditional views on marriage and women's roles in society.
- In some cultures, it is common to use a woman's husband's name after 'Mrs.', while in others, a woman's maiden name is retained.
Literature and Media
- In classic literature, many characters are referred to as 'Mrs.' to highlight their relationships, often reflecting societal norms of the time.
- Popular films and novels often explore the identities of women with the title 'Mrs.', connecting their marital status to their personal journeys.
Historical Context
- 'Mrs.' became a formal title in the 18th century, aligning with changing views about marriage and women's identities.
- In the feminist movement, the usage of 'Mrs.' has been debated as it ties a woman's identity to her marital status.
Contemporary Usage
- Some women prefer 'Ms.' over 'Mrs.' to avoid implications about their marital status.
- In professional settings, 'Mrs.' may be seen as less relevant as gender-neutral titles gain popularity.
Origin of 'Mrs.'
Main points about word origin
- 'Mrs.' originated from the word 'Mistress' which once referred to a woman in a position of authority.
- Originally, 'Mrs.' was used for all women, but over time it became specifically for married women.
The term 'Mrs.' is an abbreviation for the word 'mistress'. Originally, 'mistress' was used as a title for a woman who was in a position of authority or control. Over time, the term evolved to specifically refer to a married woman. The abbreviation 'Mrs.' became popular in the 17th century and has been used as a formal title of respect for married women ever since.