memsahib

Memsahib is a term of respect used in India and other parts of South Asia for a European woman, particularly the wife of a British official or businessman during the British Raj. The word itself is a compound of the Hindi words "memsaheb," meaning "madam" or "lady," and "sahib," an honorific title of respect. The term was adopted by the Indian population to refer to the European women they encountered during colonial rule.

The term "Memsahib" carried connotations of status, privilege, and often a certain degree of aloofness or perceived superiority associated with the colonial ruling class. Memsahibs were often expected to maintain a certain social standing, oversee household staff, and participate in the social life of the expatriate community. Their lives were distinct from those of the local Indian population, reflecting the social and racial hierarchies of the time.

While the term was initially applied to European women, its usage broadened over time. It could also refer to Indian women of high social standing or those who adopted Western mannerisms and dress, though this was less common. The term is rarely used in contemporary India, having largely fallen out of fashion with the end of British rule. However, it remains a significant term for understanding the social dynamics and language of the colonial era in South Asia.