Bemadaming

/bɪˈmædəmɪŋ/ noun

Definition

Present participle of 'bemadam'; the act of excessively addressing someone as 'madam' or treating with excessive formality.

Etymology

Present participle form of the verb 'bemadam,' formed by adding '-ing.' Shows the verbal flexibility of the 'be-' prefix system in Early Modern English.

Kelly Says

By the time you get to 'bemadaming,' the word is clearly tongue-in-cheek—writers were definitely winking at their readers about the absurdity of overly formal speech.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Perpetuates gendered address through the 'madam' root.

Inclusive Usage

Use gender-neutral formal address conventions.

Inclusive Alternatives

["formally addressing","acknowledging respectfully"]

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