Definition

Noun: 1. A German courtesy title for a man: A German word used as a title of respect before a man's surname, equivalent to "Mr." in English. 2. A German man: Used to refer to a German man, often in a formal or historical context.

Usage

• As a title: "Herr" is placed directly before a man's last name. It is the standard formal address, similar to "Mr. Smith."
• As a noun: When used alone, it simply means "a German gentleman" or "a German man."

Examples

• As a title:
  • The letter was addressed to Herr Schmidt.
  • May I introduce Herr Doktor Weber?
• As a noun:
  • The Herr at the front desk was very helpful.
  • An elderly Herr tipped his hat as he walked by.

Advanced Usage

• "Mein Herr": A polite form of address meaning "Sir" or "my good sir," used when speaking directly to a man whose name you do not know.
  • "Excuse me, mein Herr, you dropped your glove."

Variants and Related Words

• Frau (n): The equivalent courtesy title for a married or adult woman, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Ms."
• Fräulein (n): A now largely outdated title for an unmarried woman, equivalent to "Miss."

Synonyms

• Mister (n): The direct English equivalent when used as a title (Mr.).
• Gentleman (n): A synonym when used to mean a German man.

Notes on Usage

• "Herr" is always capitalized in German.
• In contemporary English texts, it is most commonly encountered in historical contexts, direct quotations, or when referring to individuals in a German-language context.

Noun

1. a German courtesy title or form of address for a man
2. a German man; used before the name as a title equivalent to Mr in English