# Herr

/ˈhɛɹ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/herr
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a German word for 'Mr.' or 'Sir'. You use it when speaking to or about a German man in a polite or formal way.

For teachers: a German title of respect equivalent to 'Mr.' or 'Sir'. Used as a prefix before a surname or as a formal address for a man.

## Examples

- The waiter addressed the guest as Herr Schmidt.
- During the formal introduction, the host introduced the visiting professor as Herr Professor Müller.

## Usage notes

- Used as a title before a surname; when used in English, it typically retains its German capitalization.

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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.
