madam
/ˈmædəm/
NOUN
1. A polite form of address for a woman
A formal and respectful title used when speaking directly to a woman, especially when her name or position is unknown.
1.1. Formal and respectful address
Used in formal situations to address a woman politely, particularly in customer service, professional settings, or official correspondence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The polite chauffeur tipped his hat and said, "Your carriage awaits, madam."
- Madam, your reservation is ready, and the table has been set to your liking.
- The lawyer addressed the judge respectfully, saying, "Yes, madam, we are ready to proceed."
Related Words
- title
- honorific
- courtesy
- respect
- gentlewoman
- mistress
NOUN
2. A woman who manages a household
A woman who is in charge of a household or domestic establishment, traditionally exercising authority over its staff and daily activities.
2.1. Female head of a household
Refers to a woman who oversees domestic affairs, manages household responsibilities, or occupies the position of the female head of a home.
Synonyms
- lady of the house
- mistress
- matron
- housewife
- homemaker
Examples
- The servants waited for the madam to give instructions before preparing dinner.
- As the madam of the household, she supervised the daily domestic arrangements.
Related Words
- household
- domestic management
- housekeeper
- household staff
- family
- housemother
NOUN
3. A woman who operates a brothel
A woman who manages a brothel or arranges prostitution, sometimes acting as an intermediary between sex workers and their clients.
3.1. Management of prostitution
Used to describe a woman who runs a brothel, supervises sex workers, or arranges commercial sexual services for clients.
Synonyms
- bawd
- procuress
- brothel keeper
- brothel owner
Examples
- The novel portrayed the madam as the powerful manager of an exclusive brothel.
- The police investigation identified the madam who arranged clients for the establishment.
Related Words
- brothel
- prostitution
- pimp
- sex work
- solicitation
- client
- sex worker
NOUN
4. A conceited or demanding girl or woman
A girl or woman who behaves in a self-important, bossy, or excessively demanding manner.
4.1. Bossy and self-important behavior
Used informally, sometimes humorously or disapprovingly, to describe a female who acts as though she deserves special treatment or expects others to obey her.
Synonyms
- prima donna
- diva
- snob
- haughty woman
Examples
- The children called her a little madam because she always insisted on getting her own way.
- She behaved like a madam, expecting everyone else to do exactly what she wanted.
Related Words
- conceit
- arrogance
- bossiness
- self-importance
- entitlement
- pretentiousness
VERB
5. To address a woman formally
To speak to or address a woman using the respectful title "madam."
5.1. Formal verbal address
Used when referring to the act of addressing a woman with the formal title madam as a sign of politeness or respect.
Synonyms
Examples
- The waiter madamed every female guest as he welcomed them into the restaurant.
Related Words
- greet
- honorific
- courtesy
- formal address
- respect