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paramour

noun

/ˈpærəmʊə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of paramour

A lover, often one who is engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone who is already in a committed relationship with someone else.
"The politician's affair with his paramour was exposed by the media, causing a scandal."

Detailed meaning of paramour

The term is often used in a negative or scandalous context, and is associated with feelings of betrayal, infidelity, and moral ambiguity. Paramours may be secret or openly acknowledged, and may be the cause of great emotional turmoil for all parties involved. In literature and art, the figure of the paramour is a common trope, often portrayed as a seductive and dangerous temptress who leads the protagonist astray from their moral duties or obligations. Overall, the term "paramour" conveys a sense of forbidden desire and illicit passion, and is often used to describe romantic relationships that are considered taboo or socially unacceptable.

Example sentences containing paramour

1. The scandalous affair was revealed when his wife discovered his paramour.
2. She knew about her husband's paramour but chose to look the other way.
3. The love letters were exchanged secretly between the paramours.
4. The couple's illicit relationship began when he became her paramour.
5. The novel's plot revolved around a forbidden paramour.
6. The paramour's identity remained a closely guarded secret.

History and etymology of paramour

The noun 'paramour' has its roots in Old French, specifically from the term 'par amour,' which literally means 'by love.' In this context, 'par' signifies 'by' or 'through,' and 'amour' stands for 'love.' Over time, the phrase 'par amour' evolved into the single word 'paramour' in English. This term typically refers to a lover, often someone engaged in a romantic or sexual relationship with a person who is already committed to someone else. The etymology of 'paramour' underscores the idea that this relationship is driven by love and passion, even if it exists in the context of a preexisting commitment, emphasizing the intensity of the romantic or sexual connection.

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Further usage examples of paramour

1. The betrayed spouse confronted the unfaithful paramour.
2. The courtroom drama unfolded as the paramour testified against the accused.
3. Their passionate rendezvous was a well-kept secret between the paramours.
4. The paramour's presence at the family gathering raised eyebrows.
5. The paramour vowed to stand by their love, despite the obstacles.
6. The paramour's betrayal shattered their once-happy marriage.
7. The passionate affair ended when the paramour decided to move on.
8. The paramour provided a shoulder to cry on during difficult times.
9. The paramour became a central figure in the love triangle.
10. The love letters revealed the depth of emotion between the paramours.
11. The secret rendezvous spot was a cherished memory for the paramours.
12. The paramour's influence on the relationship was undeniable.
13. The family tried to heal after discovering the affair with the paramour.
14. The love triangle reached its breaking point when the paramour made a choice.
15. The wealthy businessman kept a luxurious apartment for his paramour in a secret location.
16. The singer wrote a song about his paramour, expressing his forbidden love.
17. The detective uncovered evidence of the suspect's relationship with his paramour, leading to a breakthrough in the case.
18. The noblewoman was forced to end her affair with her paramour when it became too risky.
19. The movie portrayed the protagonist's illicit affair with his paramour in a steamy romance.
20. The poet wrote about the pain of losing his paramour, describing his heartbreak in vivid detail.
21. The young couple's relationship began as a secret paramour affair, but eventually grew into something deeper.
22. The historical figure was known for his passionate affairs with his paramours, scandalizing society.
23. The aristocrat kept his paramour hidden from his wife, fearing the consequences of discovery.
24. The spy used his relationship with his paramour to extract valuable information from his target.
25. The novelist created a complex character who was torn between her duty and her love for her paramour.