Pronunciation

/sɜː/

Definitions

• Noun: A formal or polite title used to address someone with respect, typically a man. For example: “He addressed the crowd as ‘Ladies and gentlemen, sir.’”
• Adjective: Designating or used to address a male person with respect. For example: “The butler bowed to his master, addressing him as ‘Sir.’”
• Interjection: An expression of respect or politeness, often used to start a conversation. For example: “May I have your attention, please, sir?”

Phrases

• “Address someone as sir” means to formally refer to or speak to a man with respect.
• “Sir, yes, sir” is a military or formal response to a command.
• “After you, sir” is an expression of courtesy, indicating that someone should go first.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The officer saluted the commander, calling him ‘sir.’”
• Adjective: “The teacher addressed the class, asking the sir for his thoughts.”
• Interjection: “Excuse me, sir, do you know where the restroom is?”

Synonyms

• Gentleman
• Sirrah (informal, sometimes disrespectful)
• Ma’am (formal, used for women)
• Sirs (plural, addressing multiple men)
• Mister (less formal than sir)