Does sir mean your old?

The word sir, which is a respectful term used to address a man, derives from the word sire. The word sire is now considered archaic. But it was once used to refer to an authority or a person of general importance.

Can a female be addressed as sir?

It is not uncommon for female officers to be called sir. The transition from civilian to military officer is a pretty big one and no one can expect you to think about all of the many changes that are going to happen. One thing I didn’t think about when I was commissioned, is that people would address me as Ma’am.

What is feminine gender of sir?

‘Sir’ is generic for an adult man, single or married. “Miss” would be the feminine counterpart for a single woman, and ‘Madame’ for a married woman.

Why do we say “sir” or “Ma’am”?

The sir or ma’am concept is to show respect, primarily to elders but yes, as the original question asks, also to peers. Jan answered rightly when she said that it’s so ingrained that we don’t realize we’re doing it. I know in my own dealings out in the public, a “sir” or “ma’am” is seldom rejected and people seem to appreciate it.

Is it better to write Dear sir madam or Madam?

However, that doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable. “To Whom It May Concern” is suited for situations when you’re not sure who would be responsible for your inquiry. “Dear Sir/Madam” is better for when you are writing to a specific person, you just don’t know their name.

How old do you have to be to call someone Sir?

• Sir and ma’am are not age-related. Once you’re old enough to have the right to vote or serve in the military (age 18), you’re old enough for others to refer to as sir or ma’am.

Is there a gender-neutral term for Sir/Madam?

The best I’ve been able to find is “Sera”, a formality used in Morrowind. Other forms of it are “Muthsera” for your superiors, or the less formal “Serjo” for close friends. My suggestion for a gender-neutral replacement term for “sir/madam” would be “respected individual”.