sir
n. · v.-
1 polite address (n.) A2 Elementary Formala polite way to address a man, especially if you do not know his name.
a respectful term of address used for a male person, typically when his name is unknown or to show deference.
ExampleExcuse me, sir, I think you dropped your wallet on the sidewalk.
ExampleThe waiter approached the table and asked, 'Are you ready to order now, sir?'
UsageUsually used as a standalone vocative without a following name.
- madam
- ma'am
PitfallExcuse me, Sir John, can you help me?Excuse me, sir, can you help me?Use 'sir' alone when you don't know the name. Only use 'Sir' with a name if the person has a formal title like a knighthood.
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2 formal title (n.) B1 Intermediate British English Formala title used before the first name of a knight or baronet.
the titular prefix used before the forename of a knight or baronet.
ExampleSir Isaac Newton was a famous scientist who studied gravity.
ExampleThe Queen granted him a knighthood, and he is now formally addressed as Sir Anthony.
UsageAlways capitalized and followed by a given name.
PitfallI met Sir Smith yesterday.I met Sir Elton yesterday.The title 'Sir' must be followed by a first name (Sir Elton) or a full name (Sir Elton John), never just a surname.
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3 school teacher (n.) B1 Intermediate British Englisha way for students to address a male teacher in some countries.
a conventional term of address used by students for a male school teacher.
ExamplePlease, sir, can I go to the bathroom?
ExampleIn many British secondary schools, it remains standard practice for pupils to address male staff members simply as 'sir'.
UsageCommonly used as a vocative in educational settings.
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4 to call someone sir (v.) C1 Advanced Informalto call someone 'sir' when you speak to them.
to address a person using the honorific 'sir', often to show extreme respect or military discipline.
ExampleDon't sir me—we've been friends for years.
ExampleThe recruit was instructed to sir every officer he encountered on the base.
UsageUsed transitively; the object is the person being addressed.
- Nounsir
- Adjectivesurly
- 01
aye aye, sir
The correct and seamanlike reply, onboard a Royal Navy and US Navy ship, on receipt of an order from someone of senior rank or authority. It means "I understand the command and hasten to comply with the order."
- 02
don't call me sir, I work for a living
Used by senior enlisted military personnel to indicate that they are not commissioned officers.