How Do You Spell SIRRAH?

Pronunciation: [sˈɜːɹə] (IPA)

Correct spelling for the English word "sirrah" is [sˈɜːɹə], [sˈɜːɹə], [s_ˈɜː_ɹ_ə] (IPA phonetic alphabet).

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Plural
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SIRRAH Meaning and Definition

  1. Sirrah is an archaic term primarily used in Shakespearean plays and other 16th and 17th century English literature. It is derived from the combination of the words "sire" and "rah" and was predominantly used to address or refer to an inferior or subordinate person, particularly a young male servant.

    With connotations of familiarity and contempt, it was often employed by characters of higher social status or authority to assert dominance or to scold or reprimand someone beneath them. The term was typically aimed at individuals of lower social standing or of a lower rank within a household or organization.

    The term's usage can be traced back to the Middle English period ('sire' being an address for a man of superior rank) and the addition of 'rah' serves to intensify and possibly add a derogatory undertone. In modern terms, it can be seen as an equivalent of "boy" or "lackey", but with more emphasis on insolence or impudence.

    Due to its antiquated nature, the usage and understanding of the word 'sirrah' have largely diminished over time, confined mostly to literature or theatrical adaptations. It serves as a reminder of the clear social hierarchies and the distinct language patterns that prevailed during that era, allowing contemporary readers and theatergoers to immerse themselves in the historical context of the works in which it appears.

  2. A word used in anger, contempt, or reproach, sometimes in familiarity, in addressing.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SIRRAH

Etymology of SIRRAH

The word "sirrah" is one of the archaic forms of address in the English language, primarily used during the Early Modern English period. It is derived from the combination of the word "sir" and the suffix "-rah".

The word "sir" comes from the Middle English term "sire", which was a respectful form of address for a man of social status or a person in authority. It originated from the Old French word "sire", derived from the Latin word "senior", meaning "older, elder".

The suffix "-rah" used in "sirrah" is a variant of the "-er" suffix, which was commonly added to names and titles in Middle English to form familiar and sometimes contemptuous forms of address.

Similar spelling words for SIRRAH

Plural form of SIRRAH is SIRRAHS

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Correct spelling for sirrah
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