Ms
UK: mɪz | US: mɪz
n. a title used before a woman’s surname or full name, regardless of her marital status, as a neutral alternative to "Miss" or "Mrs."
The term "Ms" emerged in the 20th century as a feminist linguistic innovation, blending the abbreviation "M" (from "Mistress," an archaic term for women) with the honorific "-s" (common in titles like "Mrs." and "Miss"). It was designed to provide a marital-status-neutral alternative, reflecting societal shifts toward gender equality. Unlike "Miss" (unmarried) or "Mrs." (married), "Ms" deliberately omits marital specificity, mirroring the neutrality of "Mr." for men.
The invitation was addressed to Ms. Jane Smith.
Many professional women prefer using "Ms" in formal settings.
Ms. Johnson will lead the meeting tomorrow.
The form asked whether to use Miss, Mrs., or Ms.
She chose "Ms" to avoid disclosing her marital status.