GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.9

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

prostitute

noun

/ˈprɒs tɪˌtut/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of prostitute

An individual who engages in the exchange of sexual services for money or other forms of payment.
"She chose to work as a prostitute to support her family financially."

Detailed meaning of prostitute

Often considered a derogatory term, it describes a person who offers sexual acts in exchange for financial compensation, typically on a transactional basis. Prostitutes may operate in various settings, such as brothels, street corners, or through online platforms. The motivations for entering the profession can vary, ranging from economic necessity to personal choice. The practice of prostitution is subject to legal regulations and social stigmatization, differing across jurisdictions and cultural contexts. Societal attitudes towards prostitution vary widely, and debates surrounding its legality, morality, and the rights of sex workers continue to be topics of discussion. It is important to note that the term "prostitute" should be used with caution and respect, as it can perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to the marginalization of individuals involved in the sex trade.

Example sentences containing prostitute

1. The police conducted a raid on the brothel and arrested several prostitutes.
2. Prostitution is illegal in many countries, while others have regulated systems in place.
3. The documentary shed light on the lives and struggles of street prostitutes.
4. The organization provides support and resources for former prostitutes looking to leave the industry.
5. The local community expressed concern about the presence of prostitutes in the area.
6. Some argue that decriminalizing prostitution would help protect the rights and safety of prostitutes.

History and etymology of prostitute

The noun 'prostitute' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'prostituere,' which is a combination of 'pro,' meaning 'before' or 'in front of,' and 'stituere,' meaning 'to place' or 'to station.' In ancient Rome, 'prostituere' referred to the act of placing someone in front of the public for sale, often with a sexual connotation. Over time, the term evolved to describe individuals who engaged in the exchange of sexual services for money or other forms of payment. This concept was adopted into Old French as 'prostituée' and later into Middle English as 'prostitute,' retaining its core meaning. The etymology of 'prostitute' underscores its historical connection to the practice of offering sexual services for payment, emphasizing the idea of placing oneself before the public for such purposes.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun prostitute:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of prostitute

1. The court ordered the john to pay a fine for soliciting a prostitute.
2. She entered the world of prostitution out of desperation and lack of other opportunities.
3. The film portrayed the complexities and vulnerabilities of being a prostitute.
4. The organization offers counseling and rehabilitation services for victims of human trafficking who were forced into prostitution.
5. The government implemented stricter measures to combat underage prostitution.
6. The support group aims to empower and educate prostitutes about their rights and choices.
7. Prostitution has long been a topic of debate and controversy in society.
8. Many organizations advocate for the decriminalization and regulation of prostitution to protect the well-being of prostitutes.
9. She played the role of a prostitute in the movie.
10. The novel's protagonist befriended a kind-hearted prostitute.
11. The documentary portrayed the challenges faced by prostitutes.
12. The film explored the life of a struggling prostitute.
13. The story followed the journey of a young prostitute.
14. The play featured a character who was a reformed prostitute.
15. The book delved into the experiences of street prostitutes.
16. In the story, the detective interviewed a prostitute.
17. The actress received critical acclaim for her role as a prostitute.
18. The film depicted the red-light district and its prostitutes.
19. He researched the history of prostitution in the city.
20. The character's transformation from prostitute to artist was remarkable.
21. The support center offers counseling to former prostitutes.
22. The documentary highlighted the resilience of prostitutes.
23. The novel's plot revolved around a group of prostitutes.
24. The writer aimed to humanize the experiences of prostitutes.