noun

sire

sire, sire

Yes, sire, the message has been delivered.

Yes, sire, the message has been delivered.

The horse's sire was a champion.

The horse's sire was a champion.

((as a form of address)) a title used to address a king Yes, sire.

((the sire of an animal)) the male parent of an animal The foal's sire is a champion.

Synonyms: Your Majesty (for a king), father (for an animal)

From Old French 'sire' (lord), from Latin 'senior' (elder). It's the direct ancestor of 'sir'.

Think of 'sire' as a more archaic and formal version of 'sir', used for a king. Also, remember it for animals, especially horses: the 'sire' is the father.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.