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Courtesan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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courtesan

[ˈkɔːrtɪzən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

historical figure

A courtesan is a high-class prostitute or mistress, especially one associated with nobility or royalty. Courtesans were often well-educated, sophisticated, and skilled in the arts of conversation, music, and dance. They were known for their beauty, charm, and wit.

Synonyms

companion, mistress, prostitute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
courtesan

This term often refers to a high-status or elite sex worker, usually in a historical context or old literature. It also implies that the person has social and cultural skills.

  • The courtesan charmed everyone at the royal ball with her wit and beauty.
  • In Venice, courtesans were highly educated women who entertained the elite.
prostitute

This word is used to describe someone who engages in sexual activities in exchange for money or other compensation. It carries a straightforward and sometimes harsh connotation.

  • She worked as a prostitute to support her family.
  • The nightclub district was known for its numerous prostitutes.
mistress

This term is used to refer to a woman who is in a romantic and often sexual relationship with a man who is married to someone else. It often carries a negative connotation due to the infidelity involved.

  • He kept his mistress in a separate apartment in the city.
  • The scandal broke when the politician's affair with his mistress was revealed.
companion

This term is used to describe someone who spends significant time with another person, often providing emotional support or company. It doesn't necessarily imply a romantic or sexual nature.

  • The elderly woman enjoyed the company of her loyal companion, a golden retriever.
  • During his travels, he found a trustworthy companion in his friend.

Examples of usage

  • She was known as the most sought-after courtesan in the city.
  • The courtesan entertained the guests with her musical talents.
Context #2 | Noun

modern context

In modern usage, a courtesan can refer to a high-class escort or companion who provides companionship and entertainment to wealthy clients. Unlike traditional prostitutes, courtesans often offer more than just physical intimacy and may accompany clients to social events or provide intellectual stimulation.

Synonyms

companion, courier, escort.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
courtesan

This word is used to refer to a woman who was a mistress or lover, often associated with royalty or the wealthy, especially in historical contexts. It usually implies a certain level of sophistication and influence.

  • In European history, a courtesan often held significant sway over powerful men
  • She was known as the most influential courtesan of the king's court
escort

This word can be used to describe someone who accompanies another person to provide protection or as a paid date. It often has a negative connotation when used to describe someone providing companionship for money.

  • A security guard served as an escort for the celebrity
  • She felt safer having an escort walk her to her car at night
companion

This word can be used in general context to describe someone who spends a lot of time with someone else and provides friendship, support, or assistance.

  • He found a great companion in his dog during his travels
  • She acted as his companion during the conference
courier

This word is typically used in professional or logistical contexts to describe a person or service responsible for transporting documents or packages.

  • The courier delivered the package right on time
  • She works as a freelance courier for various companies

Examples of usage

  • The actress was rumored to be a courtesan for wealthy businessmen.
  • He hired a courtesan to accompany him to the opera.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, courtesans were often well-educated and highly cultured, with skills in music, art, and conversation.
  • In ancient Rome, courtesans were known as 'meretrices' and often held more social status than the average citizen.

Literature

  • Courtesans have inspired countless works of art and literature, representing both glamour and the complexities of love and power.
  • Famous authors like Alexandre Dumas and Gustave Flaubert portrayed courtesans as central characters in their novels, reflecting societal views.

Cultural Impact

  • In various cultures, courtesans were seen not just as providers of companionship, but also as significant influencers in political matters.
  • The role of courtesans has varied widely, from esteemed members of society in Asia to marginalized figures in the West.

Modern Usage

  • Today, the term 'courtesan' is often used in discussions around historical figures or as a romanticized representation of relationships in past societies.
  • The notion of the courtesan is used in contemporary media, where it symbolizes both allure and controversy surrounding relationships of power.

Origin of 'courtesan'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French 'courtisane', which means someone from the court, representing connection to royalty.
  • It originally referred to women who were part of royal courts and later evolved to denote those who provided intimate companionship.

The term 'courtesan' originated in 16th century Italy, derived from the Italian word 'cortigiana' meaning 'woman of the court'. Courtesans were prominent figures in European history, particularly during the Renaissance period, where they played significant roles in the cultural and political landscape. They were often patrons of the arts and influential in the social circles of the time.

See also: courteous, discourtesy.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,243, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.