signore

Signore is an Italian noun and honorific meaning “Mr.” or “Sir” in contemporary usage, and historically also “lord” or “master.” It is used as a polite form of address before a man’s surname or full name, for example Signor Rossi or Signore Rossi in formal contexts. In casual speech one may simply say “Buongiorno, signore” to address a man. The feminine forms are Signora (Mrs/Ms) and Signorina (Miss); the plural Signori is used when addressing multiple men or a mixed group, and the expression Signore e Signori is used to address an audience as “Ladies and gentlemen.” In writing, the title is often abbreviated as Sig. before a surname.

Etymology and historical development: Signore derives from Latin senior, meaning “older” or “elder,” passing into Italian via medieval Latin and Old French seigneur. The title acquired the sense of a person of authority or wealth, a status that later became a standard courtesy form in everyday language and formal contexts.

Religious and cultural usage: In religious contexts Signore is used for God or Jesus, particularly in prayers and hymns, for example Signore pietà. In secular literature and historical discourse, Signore has been employed to denote a man of status or authority. Today it remains the primary formal courtesy in Italian for addressing adult men, while feminine forms address women with corresponding titles.