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Definition lady in British English

lady noun

[countable] noun
/ˈleɪdi/
1

used for talking about a woman. Some people think this use is polite but other people think it is old-fashioned and prefer to use 'woman'

Example

Go and ask that lady over there.

Example

There was a young lady standing outside the house.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

a woman who behaves politely and in a way that was traditionally considered suitable for a woman

Example

I remember her as a refined elegant lady.

Example

She doesn't talk like a lady.

Synonyms and related words
1.2

a woman who you admire for her character or achievements

Example

She's one determined lady.

Synonyms and related words
1.3

used for talking to a woman whose name you do not know. Using this word to address someone is considered rude, and the polite word is ma'am.

Synonyms and related words
1.4

used for referring to what a woman's profession is, for example a 'lady doctor' or 'lady barrister'. Many people prefer to say 'woman doctor' or 'woman barrister' or simply 'doctor' or 'barrister'.

Synonyms and related words
1.5

a woman from an upper social class in the UK, especially in the past

Synonyms and related words
1.6

a man's wife or girlfriend

Synonyms and related words
Definition lady in British English