What does "SIrrah" mean?

Question

I know it's an insult used by a man to a male of lower social standing around Shakespeares time; what you call your servant or your dog. But does it have a literal meaning? And is it pronounced Sirr-AH or SIRR-ah?

Answer 1

The word is of uncertain etymological origin, though it stems from the same French root from which we get 'sir' and 'sire', and from which they derive their 'monsieur'.



It's not an insult in the same way 'jerk' or 'idiot' might be considered one; put it this way. It's like saying 'little man' today. If you're talking to your son and saying, "Come on, little man, we're going to the zoo", it's perfectly appropriate and not insulting. If you call your valet 'little man' just because he serves you, it is rude.



Note: persons of very high social standing, like earls and kings, often use this term without meaning to (or actually) insulting anyone. They genuinely were considered so superior to everyone else that peasants essentially nodded and accepted the title.

Answer 2

Sirrah Shakespeare

Answer 3

Hi,

According to my book... it means "fellow", although it is used with contempt. I believe it is Sirr-AH...

Answer 4

Further to your man's (1st) answer.

It is not always an insult.



Sirr (like syrup) and ah (like apple) but for effect the 2nd syllable is sometimes extended.

Answer 5

it means say ah like when you go to the doctor but it's pronownced Slrrah in ebonics