madam

• Nom désignant une femme aux manières raffinées ou une femme qui tient une maison close.

A noun that can refer to a woman of refinement or a woman who manages a house of prostitution.

1. A woman of refinementA2formal

   A polite and respectful term used to address or refer to a woman, especially one of high social status or good manners.

   Femme distinguée

   • May I help you, madam?
   • The madam of the house greeted her guests warmly.
   • She was known as a true madam in society.

   Synonymesdamegentlewomanlady

2. A woman who runs a house of prostitutionC1informal

   A woman who manages or owns a brothel.

   Tenancière de maison close

   • The madam was arrested for running an illegal establishment.
   • In the novel, the madam was a shrewd businesswoman.
   • The police raided the brothel and questioned the madam.

   Synonymesabbessbawdprocuress