Sire

Sire (debate fr: . Siʁ / Eng. Saɪə ) is historically considered a title of French origin and form of address for the heads of some of the oldest noble families, such as those of Joinville, Coucy or Saphir. Since the 16th century the salutation Sire was reserved for the king. Later, they also spread to other European countries, such as England, where "Sir" as prefix of the Knight ( Knight) today as the title and is also as a general polite form of address in use.

Even today, Sire in French is as form of address for an emperor or king, and former, are provided. The female counterpart is Madame. The appropriate title for princes and princesses is Monseigneur, or as Madame. As an alternative for the address of a ruler can majesté (German: Majesty ) are used.

The origin of the word Sire is based on an abbreviation of Monseigneur (English: My Lord ).