Bordello - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

place for prostitution

A bordello, commonly known as a brothel, is an establishment where individuals engage in sexual activities in exchange for payment. It is typically staffed by sex workers who provide companionship and sexual services to clients. Historically, bordellos have been present in many cultures around the world, often existing in a legal gray area. They are sometimes associated with vice and illegal activities. The word carries a social stigma, reflecting the legal and moral controversies surrounding prostitution.

Synonyms

brothel, house of ill repute, whorehouse.

Examples of usage

The city has strict regulations on bordellos.
She worked in a bordello to support her family.
Bordellos have existed since ancient times.
Many bordellos operated clandestinely in the past.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Throughout history, these establishments have been viewed as both taboo and a traditional part of human social interaction.
In certain cultures, they have been seen as safe spaces for exploring sexuality, providing a regulated environment.
Literature and art often romanticize bordellos, presenting them as places of intrigue and complex human relationships.

History

During the Gold Rush in the United States, bordellos gained notoriety in mining towns, often being one of the few establishments to cater to entertainment.
In 1919, the Comstock Act led to the closure of many bawdy houses in the U.S., reflecting changing societal views on morality.
In some regions, historical bordellos operated as part of the legal sex work industry, providing economic support in times of need.

Legal Perspectives

Laws surrounding these establishments vary widely around the world, from complete legalization in some countries to zero tolerance in others.
The debate over legalizing and regulating bordellos continues, with arguments for safety, health, and workers’ rights.
In some places of the world, bordellos are known as 'red-light districts', areas where such activities are concentrated and legally permitted.

Pop Culture

Films like 'Moulin Rouge!' and 'Pretty Woman' portray bordello settings to explore themes of love and personal struggle.
Songs across genres often reference these establishments to symbolize vices and the complexities of desire.
Visual artists have often drawn inspiration from bordellos, using them as backdrops to comment on societal norms and human relationships.

Origin of 'bordello'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Italian term 'bordello', which refers to a small house or brothel.
In French, the word 'bordel' also refers to a brothel, showing the cultural blend of terminology.
Historically, variations of this term existed in many languages, indicating a long-standing presence of such establishments in society.

The term 'bordello' originates from the Italian word 'bordello', which means a small house or cottage. This word itself derives from 'bordo', meaning 'a hut' or 'shack'. The use of the term in the context of a house of prostitution began to appear in Western languages during the early modern period, around the 16th century. In France, the term 'bordel' appeared as a similar reference to a brothel. Historically, bordellos have been associated with various social classes and have shown the complexities surrounding human sexuality and economic necessity. Over time, bordellos have been legalized or regulated in certain areas, leading to ongoing discussions about social justice, health, and safety for sex workers.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,960, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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36957 fiefdom
36958 motorization
36959 melodiously
36960 bordello
36961 lactated
36962 extraverted
36963 traduce
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Bordello Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations