Definition

1. Noun:
   • A title of respect for an Italian man: "Signor" is used as a courtesy title, equivalent to "Mr." or "Sir" in English. It can be placed before a man's name or used alone to address him politely.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • Good evening, Signor Rossi. (A polite greeting using the title before a surname.)
  • The signor requested a table by the window. (Using the term alone to refer respectfully to an Italian gentleman.)
  • Excuse me, Signor, you dropped your glove. (Using the term alone as a direct form of address.)

Advanced Usage

• "Il Signor": The Italian definite article "il" (the) is often used with "Signor" in Italian phrases, though in English contexts, "Signor" is typically used alone.
  • Il Signor Bianchi will arrive at noon. (This phrasing mirrors Italian usage within an English sentence.)

Variants and Related Words

• Signora (n): The courtesy title for a married or older Italian woman, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Madam."
  • Signora Ferrari is our host.
• Signorina (n): The courtesy title for a young or unmarried Italian woman, equivalent to "Miss."
  • Please follow Signorina Conti.
• Signore (n): The Italian word for "gentleman" or "lord," and the plural form "signori" means "gentlemen." It is the base word from which the title "Signor" is derived.

Synonyms

• Mr.: The standard English title used before a surname.
• Sir: A polite form of address for a man, used independently.

Related Phrases

• My dear signor: A somewhat formal or old-fashioned polite address.
  • My dear signor, you are too kind.

Noun

1. used as an Italian courtesy title; can be prefixed to the name or used separately