Harlot
/ˈhɑːrlɪt/noun
A woman who engages in sexual acts for money; a prostitute.
Did you know?The word 'harlot' derives from a term meaning 'a little army,' implying a woman of many lovers, invoking both power and promiscuity.
Etymological Timeline
Old French
Old French
harlot
“A young man or servant, later associated with women of loose morals.”
Middle English
Middle English
harlot
“Used to describe a promiscuous woman, emphasizing moral degradation.”
14th Century
English
harlot
“A term for a woman of ill-repute, solidifying its negative connotation.”
Modern English
English
harlot
“Retained as a derogatory term for a woman engaging in sexual commerce.”