Srta

Srta. is the abbreviation for Señorita, a Spanish honorific used before the name of a young or unmarried woman. It is the feminine counterpart to Señor and serves a similar social function to Miss in English. The full form, Señorita, comes from señorita with the diminutive suffix -ita, signaling youth or unmarried status in traditional usage.

In written form, Srta. is typically followed by a surname or full name, as in Srta. García or Srta. María López. The abbreviation may appear with or without a period, depending on style guide and regional conventions. In many contemporary contexts, especially in formal or professional writing, speakers may opt to spell out Señorita or use other titles such as Señora (for married or older women) or simply use the person’s name without a title.

Regional variations influence how Srta. is perceived and applied. In some Latin American countries, Srta. historically appeared in official forms or formal address, particularly for younger, unmarried women. In Spain and other regions, usage has decreased in favor of Seño rita spelled out, or alternatives like don/doña for etiquette, and many institutions avoid gendered titles altogether in favor of names alone.

Modern usage has become more nuanced. Some people view Srta. as outdated or patronizing, while others still use it in polite or traditional contexts, especially in written correspondence, customer service, or formal introductions. The English equivalents are Miss or Ms., reflecting broader approaches to gendered titles in different languages. See also Señor, Señora, and Señorita.