sirrah

[ sir-uh ]

noun

, Archaic.

1. a term of address used to inferiors or children to express impatience, contempt, etc.

sirrah

/ ˈsɪrə /

noun

1. archaic.
   a contemptuous term used in addressing a man or boy

Word History and Origins

Origin of sirrah¹

1520–30; extended form of sir; source of final vowel is unclear

Word History and Origins

Origin of sirrah¹

C16: probably variant of sire

Example Sentences

The mind builds itself like a sirrah’s nest with whatever is at hand: silk threads and stolen hair and the feathers of dead kin.

From Literature

"What is the matter, sirrah?" cried the Count somewhat sharply.

From Project Gutenberg

"And who are you, sirrah?" demanded Felgate, giving him a fierce look that cowed him for the time.

From Project Gutenberg

He had told me that my tongue outran my thoughts, and I stood silent until he asked me curtly, "Well, sirrah, what do you say?"

From Project Gutenberg

Bear it in mind, sirrah; and when you perform, give Perigord a wide berth.

From Project Gutenberg