sir
1 ENTRIES FOUND:
plural
sirs
plural
sirs
Britannica Dictionary definition of SIR
1
[noncount]
a
— used without a name as a form of polite address to a man you do not know
—
compare ma'am, madam, miss
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May I help you, sir?
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Sir, your order is ready.
b
— used without a name as a form of polite address to a man of rank or authority (such as a military or police officer, teacher, or master)
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“At ease, lieutenant.” “Yes sir, captain.”
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Sir, I don't think I was speeding.
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Sir, can you help me with this math problem?
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Dinner is ready, sir.
2
Sir
[count]
— used without a name as a form of address at the beginning of a formal letter
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Dear Sir or Madam
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Dear Sir/Sirs
3
Sir
[noncount]
— used as a title before the name of a knight or baronet
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Sir Lancelot
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Sir Charles
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Sir Elton John
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Sir Walter Scott
4
[noncount]
US, informal
— used in the phrases no sir and yes sir for emphasis, to show surprise, etc.
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I will not have that man in my home, no sir. [=no sirree]
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That was a wonderful dinner. Yes sir. [=yes sirree]
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“She couldn't have said that to her mom.” “Yes sir, she sure did.”
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“The teacher caught them kissing.” “No sir! She did?”
