sirrah: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Historical/ArchaicObsolete/Archaising
Quick answer
What does “sirrah” mean?
An archaic term of address for a man or boy, conveying contempt, derision, or authority.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An archaic term of address for a man or boy, conveying contempt, derision, or authority.
Used historically to address a social inferior with a tone of anger, command, or scorn.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Equally archaic in both varieties. Might appear slightly more in British contexts due to the prominence of Shakespearean works in education.
Connotations
Historical, theatrical, contemptuous, hierarchical, often domineering or angry.
Frequency
Extremely rare in modern speech or writing in both regions. Used only for deliberate historical or stylistic effect.
Grammar
How to Use “sirrah” in a Sentence
Interjection + sirrahSirrah + imperative clausePronoun + sirrah + imperativeVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in historical/literary analysis.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sirrah”
- Using it in modern conversation unironically.
- Assuming it is a polite form of 'sir'.
- Confusing it with 'sire'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is the opposite. It is an archaic, contemptuous, or angrily commanding form of address to a social inferior.
Absolutely not. It would be deeply offensive and bizarre, as it implies you view your boss with contempt and as your inferior.
Primarily in the works of William Shakespeare (e.g., 'The Taming of the Shrew', 'Henry IV'), other Elizabethan/Jacobean drama, and historical fiction.
'Sir' is (or was) a term of respect. 'Sirrah' was a derogatory modification of 'sir', used to express anger, authority over, or scorn for the person being addressed.
An archaic term of address for a man or boy, conveying contempt, derision, or authority.
Sirrah is usually obsolete/archaising in register.
Sirrah: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɪrə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɪrə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"Sirrah" alone often constitutes a complete rebuke or call to attention.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of SIR + RAH! like a scornful cheer, used by a master to an unruly servant.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOCIAL HIERARCHY IS VERTICAL SPACE (the speaker is 'above' the addressee).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the use of 'sirrah' be most appropriate?