Its not intentional (so dont get all bent out of shape), he just doesnt know any better. Where hes from, calling a woman maam, no matter their age, is a sign of respect. This is just the courteous way he treats women, and youll have to learn to live with it.

Is maam a southern thing?

The important thing to understand is the regional difference in the way people think about the use of maam and sir. Their use is more prevalent in the South and Midwest and, of course, in the military.

Is it polite to say yes ma am?

What does yes maam mean? Yes maam is a polite way of affirming something an older or superior woman has said, often used to show sass or excitement in response to something more generally.

Is it OK to say ma am?

Maam is somewhat outdated honourific and a contraction of madame. It is a sign of respect and should never cause offence. It is usually reserved for older or married women and today may not be in common usage, depending on where you live.