madame

Thân thiện

Madame Dupont serves tea in her elegant parlor.

Definition

Noun: 1. A title of respect or form of address for a married French-speaking woman, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Madam" in English. It is used before the surname or full name. 2. (Often capitalized) A title used for a woman who is the head of a business, especially one considered sophisticated or fashionable, such as the proprietor of a dress shop or a nightclub.

Usage

• The word "madame" is a formal title of address.
• It is commonly used when speaking to or about a married French woman.
• In English contexts, it can be used to add a sense of French sophistication or to refer to a female proprietor in certain businesses.

Examples

• Noun:
  • We have an appointment with Madame Curie.
  • Excuse me, Madame Lefèvre, your table is ready.
  • The elegant hat shop is run by a formidable madame.

Advanced Usage

• "Madame" vs. "Mademoiselle": Historically, "Madame" was used for married women and "Mademoiselle" for unmarried women. In modern French official contexts, "Madame" is increasingly used for all adult women regardless of marital status, a practice sometimes reflected in English usage.
• As a standalone form of address: It can be used politely without a name, similar to "Madam."
  • "Your coat, Madame."

Variants and Related Words

• Mesdames: The plural form of "Madame," used when addressing or referring to multiple women.
  • Mesdames, the performance will begin shortly.

Synonyms

• Mrs.: A standard English title for a married woman.
• Madam: A formal English term of address for a woman.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The primary meaning is the title for a French-speaking married woman.
• The secondary meaning (female proprietor) is more specific and often carries a stylistic connotation, evoking a certain European or high-society ambiance.

Học thuật

Noun

1. title used for a married Frenchwoman