ladyship
/ˈleɪdiˌʃɪp/
NOUN
1. A respectful title for a woman of the nobility
A formal honorific or style of address used to refer to or address a woman who holds a rank in the British peerage or belongs to the aristocracy, particularly when her personal title is not explicitly stated.
1.1. Aristocratic titles and forms of address
Used as a formal expression of respect when referring to or addressing a noblewoman, peeress, or woman entitled to the aristocratic style of Lady.
Synonyms
- Her Ladyship
- Your Ladyship
- My Lady
- milady
- dame
- noblewoman
- peeress
- gentlewoman
Antonyms
- disrespect
Examples
- We extend a warm welcome to Her Ladyship as the guest of honor at tonight's event.
- His loyal subjects addressed her with the utmost respect, always using the title ladyship.
- As she entered the room, the attendees rose in acknowledgment of her esteemed ladyship.
- The grand ballroom was adorned in anticipation of Her Ladyship's arrival.
Related Words
- baroness
- countess
- duchess
- marchioness
- viscountess
- marquise
- princess
- queen
- dowager
- aristocracy
- peerage
- nobility
- honorific
- social rank
NOUN
2. A formal title of address for a female judge
A traditional formal style of address used in English and some Commonwealth legal systems when speaking to or referring to a woman serving as a judge.
2.1. Judicial and courtroom address
Used in formal courtroom proceedings and legal communication as a respectful way to address or refer to a female judge, particularly in jurisdictions where the traditional judicial honorific is retained.
Synonyms
- My Lady
- Your Ladyship
- Her Ladyship
Examples
- The barrister respectfully addressed the female judge as Your Ladyship.
- The attorney presented his arguments before Her Ladyship during the hearing.
- The witness waited for My Lady to finish speaking before answering the question.