# Frau

/ˈfɹaʊ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/frau
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a title for a German-speaking woman, similar to 'Mrs.' or 'Ms.' in English. It is also used as a polite way to address a woman in a German-speaking country.

For teachers: a German title of address for a woman, equivalent to 'Mrs.' or 'Ms.'. When used in English contexts, it often refers specifically to a married woman or a woman of German nationality.

## Examples

- The hotel clerk addressed her as Frau Schmidt.
- During the conference in Berlin, the moderator introduced the keynote speaker as Frau Professor Weber.

## Usage notes

- In modern German, it is the standard polite address for all adult women regardless of marital status; in English usage, it often retains a more traditional association with married women.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.