We keep using the words ‘Sir’ and ‘Madam’ often. We also speak it from childhood till growing up. This word has become so integrated into the Indian language that we have started using it in common conversation and now this word has become our own in such a way that it no longer even seems alien. Be it school or college or a customer at a shop… the use of this word has become very common everywhere. However, very few people think what the meaning of this word is and even fewer people know why it is said. If you also do not know then let us know.
Where did the word ‘Sir’ come from?
The word Sir is added before the names of respectable persons or officials, like Shri and Shriman in Hindi. In such a situation, the question often arises that where did this word come from. So let us tell you that the word Sir is derived from the French word ‘Sire’. Which is used to address an elder man. Sir was also an honorific title given for political and diplomatic reasons. Which was given as a favor to only a few Indians during the British rule.
Where did the word Madam come from?
Now we come to the word ‘Madam’, which, like Sir, is said with the purpose of giving respect to a woman rather than a man. According to Collins Dictionary, the word madam is derived from the word ‘my dame’. The word Dame originated from Latin Domina. Which is the feminine form of Dominus. Which means lord or master. However, now the word Dame is considered objectionable. At one time the word Dame was used for a married woman or a woman holding a responsible position. Now the word Madam is used instead.
Also read: Meteorological department told about the danger of heat wave, do you know what happens in it?