The Meaning Of The Word Mister

The abbreviation Mr. comes from Middle English, where it was the abbreviation of maister, meaning “master.” Master was the original preferred title for young unmarried men, and mister was specific to those who were married, until the former fell out of use and the latter came to apply to both.

Where did the term mister come from?

Mr. was used as a shortening of master, a title used for men of high authority. By the mid-18th century, both Mr. and its longer form Mister had become distinct words from master and became common English honorifics to generally address men of higher social rank.

Why do people call you Mister?

Referring to someone as "Mister" is a polite and formal way of addressing them, especially when you do not know their name or wish to show respect. It is often used in situations where you want to be courteous and maintain a level of formality.