δεσποινίς
despoinís
The Greek equivalent of the English title "Ms." is δεσποινίς (despoinís).
δεσποινίς is a title used before a woman's surname. It is used regardless of whether the woman is married or single.
How do you pronounce it?
despoinís
Did you know?
- The word δεσποινίς shares an ancient root with the word 'despot', which originally meant a 'master' or 'ruler' in a much more neutral sense.
- The term δεσποινίς was historically used in the Byzantine court to address women of high nobility.
- Depending on the region and social circle, δεσποινίς can sometimes be perceived as specifically referring to a young unmarried woman, despite its official use as 'Ms.'.
Examples in context
- Κυρία Σοφία, θα ήθελα να σας παρουσιάσω τον κ. Πέτρο.Mrs. Sofia, I would like to introduce you to Mr. Petros.
- Κυρία Αναστασία, σας ευχαριστούμε για την κατανόηση.Ms. Anastasia, thank you for your understanding.
Example conversation
Dimitris is introducing a colleague to Elena.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΕλένη, σας παρουσιάζω τη δεσποινίς Κάτσο.Elini, sas parousiazo ti despoinis Katso.Elena, I introduce you to Ms. Katso.
- Ελένη EleniΧαίρομαι πολύ για τη γνωριμία μας.Heromai poly gia ti gnorimia mas.I am very glad to meet you.
- Δημήτρης DimitrisΗ δεσποινίς είναι η νέα μας συνεργάτης.I despoinis einai i nea mas synergatis.Ms. is our new partner.
- Ελένη EleniΚαλωσρίσατε στην ομάδα μας!Kalosrisaste stin omada mas!Welcome to our team!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry δεσποινίς, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries δεσποινίς, CC BY-SA 4.0.
