Sir John

English

Etymology

Sir was formerly a common title of address for the clergy as a translation of Latin dominus, the term used for a bachelor of arts, originally in contradistinction from the magister, or master of arts.

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ɒn

Noun

Sir John (plural Sir Johns)

1. (obsolete, colloquial) A priest.
   • 1808, John Jamieson, An Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language, volume 2:

     But how comes it to passe (may some say) that these poore Franciscans are more commonly flouted and played upon than the other fry of Friers? Verily it is not for want of examples as well of other Monks as of simple Sir Johns.

   • a. 1555, John Bradford, letter to Richard Hopkins

     Who then, I say, will excuse these mass-gospellers' consciences? Will the Queen's highness? She shall then have more to do for herself than, without hearty and speedy repentance, she can ever be able to answer, though Peter, Paul, Mary, James, John, the Pope and all his prelates, take her part, with all the singing "Sir Johns" that ever were, are, and shall be.