While browsing through dictionary.com, you might discover (and it ought not to come as much of a surprise) that the word “mister” is related to the word “master.” That they sound alike is a bit misleading I think. I believe they’re connected, but the path is a bit more circuitous (though not exactly serpentine.) Let’s begin.

Hierarchical feudalist Europe; a bunch of people work for a higher-up (the master) who ostensibly, in turn, protects them. In a generic sense, the word “lord” means master. Think “lord of the castle.” In French, “lord” is “seigneur.” So, “my lord,” becomes “mon seigneur.” Say that a few times fast and we have efficient Frenchmen coming up with “monsieur.” The English overhearing “monsieur” came up with their version, “mister.”

That’s how I believe it happened. “Mister” began appearing in the 1500s, and as soon as I get around to it, or get my butt in gear (see below), I’m going to find references proving that “monsieur” is much, much older. That wont prove the connection, but might bolster my claim somewhat.

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