Monsieur

/məˈsjʊə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A term of respect when addressing a man, commonly used in formal situations.

Monsieur, it is an honor to meet you at this gala.

Used in French-speaking countries or communities as a polite form of address.

She referred to her boss as monsieur during their meeting.

A French term of address used to refer to a man, equivalent to 'Mister' in English.

Excuse me, monsieur, could you help me find this address?

A title used for a gentleman or a person of importance.

The waiter approached the table and asked, 'What can I get for you, monsieur?'

Middle French, from 'mon' (my) and 'sieur' (lord or chief).

monsieur le Président

Mr. President

monsieur tout le monde

everyman, an average person

monsieur d’Ordre

a man of order

madame

a term of respect for a woman in French.

messieurs

the plural form of monsieur.

Used in casual contexts to refer to men generally.

Hey, monsieur, can you help me with this?

Sometimes used humorously or sarcastically.

Oh, look who it is, monsieur fancy pants!