ma'am

[ mam, mahm; unstressed muhm ]

noun

1. madam ( def 1 ).
2. (in Britain) a term used in addressing the queen or a royal princess.

ma'am

/ mɑːm; mæm; məm /

noun

1. short for madam

Usage

Ma'am is used as a title of respect, especially when addressing female royalty

Word History and Origins

Origin of ma'am¹

First recorded in 1660–70; by contraction

Example Sentences

At the time, her friends saw no reason to doubt her, with one even jokingly calling her "ma'am" in a WhatsApp message.

From BBC

"You were required to provide answers and, ma'am, you did not."

From BBC

Cohen said: "No ma'am," adding that it was not enough work for him to send an invoice.

From Salon

"Come on, ma'am, don't give up," a voice can be heard saying in a state trooper's body-camera footage.

From Salon

"No ma'am, he's a decent family man, citizen, that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that's what this campaign is all about," McCain said to applause.

From Salon

Related Words

• madame