OpenSynonym

madame

/ˈmædəm/

NOUN

1. A polite form of address for a woman

A formal and respectful title used when addressing a woman, especially when her name or position is unknown.

1.1. Formal and respectful address

Used in polite or formal conversation to address a woman, particularly in professional, social, or service situations.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The waiter graciously took her order, saying, "Your dinner will be served shortly, madame."
  • Madame, your carriage is ready to take you to the opera as requested.
  • The vendors politely asked, "How can I assist you today, madame?"

Related Words

NOUN

2. A woman who manages a household

The female head or mistress of a household who traditionally oversees domestic affairs and household staff.

2.1. Female head of a household

Refers to a woman who manages a home, supervises domestic responsibilities, or holds authority over a household and its staff.

Synonyms

  • mistress
  • lady of the house
  • matron
  • housewife
  • homemaker
  • housemother
  • manageress

Examples

  • The madame of the household supervised the servants and organized the daily activities.
  • The staff waited for the madame to arrive before serving dinner.

Related Words

NOUN

3. A woman who operates a brothel

A woman who manages a brothel or organizes prostitution, often arranging clients for sex workers.

3.1. Brothel management and prostitution

Describes a woman who runs a brothel, manages sex workers, or arranges commercial sexual services for clients.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The novel portrayed the madame as the powerful manager of an exclusive brothel.
  • The investigation revealed that the madame arranged clients for the establishment.

Related Words

  • brothel
  • prostitution
  • sex worker
  • call girl
  • courtesan
  • pimp
  • client
  • solicitation

NOUN

4. A conceited or quarrelsome girl

A girl or young woman who behaves in a self-important, bossy, demanding, or argumentative manner.

4.1. Bossy and self-important behavior

Used informally, often humorously or disapprovingly, to describe a girl who expects special treatment, insists on getting her own way, or behaves arrogantly.

Synonyms

Examples

  • The little madame refused to share her toys and insisted that everyone follow her rules.
  • Her brother jokingly called her a madame because she always expected to get her own way.

Related Words