lady

A polite word for an adult woman.

• A lady is waiting outside.
• I helped an elderly lady carry her bags.
• Two ladies came into the shop.

Similar words: woman

Common phrases: young lady, elderly lady

A polite word used when speaking directly to women, especially a group.

• Ladies, please take your seats.
• Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
• My dear lady, how can I help?

Common phrases: dear lady, lady and gentleman

A word used to speak directly to a woman whose name you do not know, sometimes rudely.

• Hey, lady, you dropped your keys!
• Listen, lady, I was here first.
• Watch where you are going, lady!

Common phrases: hey lady, listen lady

A woman with a high social title, or the wife of a man with such a title.

• The lady owned a large estate.
• Lady Margaret welcomed us to her home.
• Several lords and ladies attended the dinner.

Similar words: noblewoman

Common phrases: noble lady, lord and lady

A woman whose behavior is polite and considered proper for someone of high social standing.

• She was a lady with excellent manners.
• My grandmother always behaved like a lady.
• They expected young ladies to speak quietly.

Similar words: gentlewoman

Common phrases: a true lady, proper lady