Mademoiselle () is a

French French (french: français(e), link=no) may refer to: * Something of, from, or related to France ** French language, which originated in France, and its various dialects and accents ** French people, a nation and ethnic group identified with Franc ...

courtesy title A courtesy title is a title that does not have legal significance but rather is used through custom or courtesy, particularly, in the context of nobility, the titles used by children of members of the nobility (cf. substantive title). In some co ...

, abbreviated Mlle, traditionally given to an unmarried woman. The equivalent in English is "

Miss Miss (pronounced ) is an English language honorific typically used for a girl, for an unmarried woman (when not using another title such as "Doctor" or "Dame"), or for a married woman retaining her maiden name. Originating in the 17th century, it ...

". The courtesy title " Madame" is accorded women where their marital status is unknown. From around 1970 onwards, the use of the title "Mademoiselle" was challenged in France, particularly by feminist groups who wanted it banned. A circular from François Fillon, then Prime Minister, dated 21 February 2012, called for the deletion of the word "Mademoiselle" in all official documents. On 26 December 2012, the Council of State approved the deletion.Service Public – 8 janvier 2013 – Direction de l'information légale et administrative (Premier ministre) – Le Conseil d'État valide la suppression du « Mademoiselle » dans les documents administratifs
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References

French words and phrases Women's social titles Honorifics {{France-stub

See also

References