Term of address is a way to refer to someone in a polite and respectful manner. MADAM, with five letters, is a term of address used to refer to a woman, usually one of higher social standing. SIRE, with four letters, is a term of address used to refer to a man, usually one of higher social standing. SIR, with three letters, is a term of address used to refer to a man, usually one of lower social standing. Ma'am, with four letters, is a term of address used to refer to a woman, usually one of lower social standing.