Scottish National Dictionary (1700–)
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First published 1965 (SND Vol. VI).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
MADAM, n. Sc. usage, now obs. or dial. in Eng.: a mistress of servants, the lady of the house, a fine lady.Lnk. a.1779 D. Graham Writings (1883) II. 149:
When she's married she turns a madam, her mistress did not work much, and why should she!Ayr. 1823 Galt R. Gilhaize I. vi.:
I redde ye warn your madam, that gin she sends you here again I'll may be let his grace ken.Ayr. 1824 Galt Rothelan ii. xv.:
We shall, however, use a little more freedom with the madam of the mansion; for in her appearance and personalities we find metal more attractive.
