Dame vs. Madam: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Updated on May 23, 2024
"Dame" is a British title for a woman equivalent to a knight, while "Madam" is a formal term of respect or address for a woman, often used in American English.
Key Differences
Dame" is a British honorific title awarded to women equivalent to the male "Sir." It is part of the Order of the British Empire or other orders of chivalry. A woman given this title is recognized for her contributions to society, whether in the arts, sciences, or public service. "Madam" is a respectful form of address for a woman, often used in formal or polite contexts. It is commonly used in American English when addressing a woman whose name is not known, or in formal written communication, such as letters and emails.
In terms of usage, "Dame" is specifically tied to a formal title bestowed by the British monarchy, whereas "Madam" is a general term of respect used globally but predominantly in the U.S. context. "Dame" signifies a recognized status, while "Madam" signifies courtesy.
"Dame" is typically used in conjunction with a woman's first name or full name (e.g., Dame Judi Dench), indicating her knightly status. "Madam," on the other hand, stands alone or precedes a surname or position, like "Madam President," to show respect.
"Dame" often appears in formal or ceremonial contexts, given its link to honors and knighthood. "Madam" is used in everyday polite conversation, formal settings, and in titles of address.
Comparison Chart
Usage Context
British honorific title
General respectful address
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Form of Address
Used with first or full name
Stands alone or with a title/surname
Cultural Relevance
Tied to British orders of chivalry
Common in American English
Formality
Very formal, ceremonial
Formal in polite conversation
Recognition
Indicates bestowed honor
Indicates courtesy and respect
Dame and Madam Definitions
Dame
A woman honored for her contributions to society.
She was named a Dame for her philanthropic work.
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Madam
A polite way to address a woman in writing.
Dear Madam, I am writing to inquire about your services.
Dame
The female equivalent of "Sir" in British honors.
Dame Maggie Smith is renowned for her acting career.
Madam
Used in titles of respect, such as "Madam President."
Madam Speaker addressed the audience with authority.
Dame
A British title equivalent to a knight.
Dame Judi Dench received her title for her contribution to the arts.
Madam
Often used when the woman's name is unknown.
Excuse me, Madam, you dropped your scarf.
Dame
A title used in certain orders of chivalry.
Dame Commander is a rank in the Order of the British Empire.
Madam
A formal address in professional communication.
The letter started with Dear Madam/Sir.
Dame
An honor bestowed by the British monarchy.
The Queen appointed her as a Dame for her services.
Madam
A formal term of respect for a woman.
May I help you, Madam? the clerk asked.
Dame
Used formerly as a courtesy title for a woman in authority or a mistress of a household.
Madam
Pl. Mes·dames (mā-dăm, -däm) Used formerly as a courtesy title before a woman's given name but now used only before a surname or title indicating rank or office
Madam Ambassador.
Dame
A married woman; a matron.
Madam
Used as a salutation in a letter
Dear Madam or Sir.
Dame
An elderly woman.
Madam
Madam Used as a form of polite address for a woman
Right this way, madam.
Dame
Often Offensive Slang A woman.
Madam
Madam The mistress of a household.
Dame
A woman holding a nonhereditary title conferred by a sovereign in recognition of personal merit or service to the country.
Madam
Madam A woman who manages a brothel.
Dame
The wife or widow of a knight.
Madam
A polite form of address for a woman or lady.
Mrs Grey wondered if the outfit she was trying on made her look fat. The sales assistant just said, “It suits you, madam”.
Later, Mrs Grey was sitting in her favourite tea shop. “Would madam like the usual cream cakes and patisserie with her tea?” the waitress asked.
Dame
Used as the title for such a woman.
Madam
The mistress of a household.
Dame
(Britain) Usually capitalized as Dame: a title equivalent to Sir for a female knight.
Dame Edith Sitwell
Madam
(colloquial) A conceited or quarrelsome girl.
Selina kept pushing and shoving during musical chairs. The nursery school teacher said she was a bad-tempered little madam.
Dame
(Britain) A matron at a school, especially Eton College.
Madam
(slang) A woman who runs a brothel, particularly one that specializes in finding prostitutes for rich and important clients.
After she grew too old to work as a prostitute, she became a madam.
Dame
In traditional pantomime: a melodramatic female often played by a man in drag.
Madam
An irritable, conceited, or contemptous woman. (used as a general term of abuse).
Dame
A woman.
Madam
(transitive) To address as "madam".
Dame
(archaic) A lady, a woman.
Madam
A gentlewoman; - an appellation or courteous form of address given to a lady, especially an elderly or a married lady; - much used in the address, at the beginning of a letter, to a woman. The corresponding word in addressing a man is Sir; often abbreviated ma'am when used as a term of address.
Dame
A queen.
Madam
The woman who is in charge of a household.
Dame
To make a dame.
Madam
The woman who is in charge of a brothel.
Dame
A mistress of a family, who is a lady; a woman in authority; especially, a lady.
Then shall these lords do vex me half so much,As that proud dame, the lord protector's wife.
Madam
A woman of refinement;
A chauffeur opened the door of the limousine for the grand lady
Dame
The mistress of a family in common life, or the mistress of a common school; as, a dame's school.
In the dame's classes at the village school.
Madam
A woman who runs a house of prostitution
Dame
A woman in general, esp. an elderly woman.
Dame
A mother; - applied to human beings and quadrupeds.
Dame
Informal terms for a (young) woman
Dame
A woman of refinement;
A chauffeur opened the door of the limousine for the grand lady
FAQs
Who can be called a "Dame"?
A woman who has been honored by the British monarchy for her contributions to society.
Does "Dame" imply any specific responsibilities?
No, "Dame" is an honorific title and does not imply specific duties.
What is the difference between "Dame" and "Madam"?
"Dame" is a British title for women equivalent to knighthood, while "Madam" is a formal term of respect for women.
Can "Dame" be used in American English?
"Dame" is primarily a British term and is rarely used in American English except in reference to British honorees.
Is "Madam" used in British English?
Yes, "Madam" is used in British English as well, though it is more common in American English.
Are there any specific orders associated with "Dame"?
Yes, "Dame" is associated with various British orders, like the Order of the British Empire.
Is "Madam" always formal?
Yes, "Madam" is a formal and respectful way to address a woman.
Is "Madam" used in business settings?
Yes, "Madam" is often used in professional and business communication.
Can "Dame" be used informally?
No, "Dame" is a formal title and is not used informally.
What is the male equivalent of "Dame"?
The male equivalent is "Sir."
Can "Madam" be used in emails?
Yes, "Madam" is commonly used in formal email salutations.
Is "Madam" equivalent to "Mrs."?
No, "Madam" is more formal and does not indicate marital status.
Can men be addressed as "Madam"?
No, "Madam" is exclusively used for women.
Can "Madam" be used to address young women?
Yes, "Madam" can be used to address women of any age respectfully.
Is "Dame" used outside of the UK?
While it originates in the UK, "Dame" can be recognized globally in reference to British honors.
Is there a plural form for "Dame"?
The plural form is "Dames."
Can "Madam" be used in casual conversation?
It is generally too formal for casual conversation.
Is "Madam" still widely used today?
Yes, "Madam" remains a widely used term of respect.
Is "Dame" used in any other contexts?
"Dame" is primarily used as a title of honor and is not commonly used in other contexts.
Does "Dame" require any formal ceremony?
Yes, receiving the title "Dame" often involves a formal investiture ceremony.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
