Harlotry
/ˈhɑːr.lə.tri/noun
The behavior or practice associated with a harlot, especially prostitution or sexual promiscuity.
Did you know?Its ancestor originally referred to a male vagabond or rogue, showing how medieval moral language could transform a social label into a gendered sexual insult.
Etymological Timeline
12th Century
Anglo-French
herlot / arlot
“A vagabond, rogue, or person of disreputable status; the ultimate origin is uncertain.”
c. 1200
Middle English
harlot
“A man of low status, servant, rogue, or vagabond.”
14th Century
Middle English
harlot
“Increasingly used for a prostitute or sexually immoral woman, especially as a term of abuse.”
15th Century
Middle English
harlotry
“The conduct or condition associated with a harlot.”
Modern English
English
harlotry
“A formal or archaic term for prostitution, promiscuity, or sexually disreputable behavior.”