What does this slang term mean?

Find definitions, authentic UK slang origins, meanings, and contextual sentence examples on Streetionary.

Missus Meaning - Streetionary

Missus (noun / UK Slang)

(Also heard as: The missus, My missus, Missis)

Definition:

Missus is a casual word for a man’s wife or long-term female partner: “the missus”. It can also be a friendly way of addressing a woman, as in “excuse me, missus”.

Where Missus Comes From:

It is a spoken form of “Mrs” and “mistress”. It has been used for wife since at least the 1700s and is still very common in British speech. The spelling varies between “missus” and “missis”.

How People Actually Use Missus:

Men say “I will ask the missus” about their wife or partner. It sounds relaxed and affectionate, though it can come across as slightly old-fashioned or dismissive about the woman. Used to a stranger, “missus” can sound blunt.

Is Missus Rude?

Not usually, though some people dislike “the missus” because it sounds like a possession. Tone matters.

Examples in the Wild:

“I will have to check with the missus.”
Meaning: I need to ask my wife.
“The missus is making dinner tonight.”
Meaning: My wife is cooking.
“Excuse me, missus, you dropped your glove.”
Meaning: A casual way of addressing a woman.