Definition

1. Noun:
   • An Italian title or form of address for a married woman: "Signora" is a courtesy title used before the surname or full name of a married woman in Italian-speaking contexts.
   • An Italian title of address equivalent to Mrs.: It is the direct Italian equivalent of the English "Mrs." when used before a name.

Usage

• "Signora" is used as a formal title of respect, similar to "Madam" or "Mrs." It is typically followed by the woman's surname (e.g., Signora Rossi). It can be used on its own as a polite form of direct address.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Good evening, Signora Bianchi. (A formal greeting using the title with a surname.)
  • The signora requested a table by the window. (Here, "signora" is used as a respectful term to refer to a married woman, similar to "the lady.")
  • Excuse me, Signora, you dropped your glove. (Used alone as a polite form of direct address.)

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Context: In Italy, "Signora" is the standard formal title for a married woman. For an unmarried woman or a young woman, the title "Signorina" (equivalent to "Miss") is traditionally used, though modern usage is evolving.
• Professional Settings: It is commonly used in formal correspondence, introductions, and customer service interactions in Italian.

Variants and Related Words

• Signorina (n): The Italian title for an unmarried woman or young lady, equivalent to "Miss."
• Signore (n): The Italian title for a man, equivalent to "Mr." or "Sir."

Synonyms

• Mrs.: The direct English equivalent when used as a title before a name.
• Madam: A formal English term of address for a woman.

Notes on Meaning

• The word specifically denotes marital status (married woman) in traditional Italian usage. It is a term of respect and formality.

Noun

1. an Italian title or form of address for a married woman
2. an Italian title of address equivalent to Mrs. when used before a name