Does anyone know why we use the term "YOUR" in speaking to or of the Pope, a judge, or royalty etc.? My father recently hurt his back, and was on heavy pain medication, and this is one of the questions that came to his mind. I haven't been able to find an answer! Thanks!!

Maura:

The OED indicates that it is a substitution for you when speaking to persons of distinction, your majesty, your lordshirp, your grace, your holiness etc.

Welcome to our little world.

TEd

ps

My wife refers to me as "your impossible" quite frequently, which I assume is an endearment similar to your uniqueness.

TR

My wife refers to me as "your impossible" quite frequently, which I assume is an endearment similar to your uniqueness.

Yes, I'm sure it's a term of endearment TEd. Yep, yep, yep, term of endearment. Not an insult at all. No siree Bob.

"Jim died on March 26. Marianne was acquitted on March 29."