sir-reverence

[ sur-rev-er-uhns ]

noun

, Obsolete.

1. (used as an expression of apology, as before unseemly or indelicate words.)

sir-reverence

interjection

1. obsolete.
   an expression of apology used esp to introduce taboo or vulgar words or phrases

Word History and Origins

Origin of sir-reverence¹

First recorded in 1565–75; alteration of save your reverence

Word History and Origins

Origin of sir-reverence¹

C16: short for save your reverence

Example Sentences

Sā′ver, one who saves; Save′-rev′erence, or Sir-reverence, an apologetic phrase in conversation to cover anything offensive.—adj.

From Project Gutenberg

Sir-reverence, sėr-rev′e-rens, n. a corr. of save-reverence.

From Project Gutenberg

Lat. salv� reverenti�, whence sa' reverence, sur-reverence, and sir-reverence.Sith,

From Project Gutenberg

S. A very reverent body; ay, such a one as a man 90 may not speak of, without he say Sir-reverence.

From Project Gutenberg

A very reverent body; ay, such a one   as a man may not speak of without he say 'Sir-reverence.'

From Project Gutenberg