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Paramours: meaning, definitions and examples

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paramours

 

[ˈpærəˌmɔrz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

romantic relationship

Paramours are people who engage in a romantic or sexual relationship, often secretly or outside of marriage. The term suggests a level of passion and intimacy, typically involving emotional and physical connection.

Synonyms

adulterer, concubine, lover, partner.

Examples of usage

  • She kept her paramour a secret from her friends.
  • They were known as paramours, despite the scandal it caused.
  • He visits his paramour on weekends, away from prying eyes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old French 'paramour', meaning 'by arrangement' or 'for love'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'par', meaning 'equal', and 'amor', meaning 'love'.
  • Historically, it was used in a more secretive context, often implying an affair.

Literature

  • In medieval literature, 'paramour' often represented a knight's secret love, creating tales of adventure and longing.
  • Shakespeare used the term in several of his plays to reflect complex relationships and social dynamics.
  • In romantic poetry, paramours are often depicted as star-crossed lovers, emphasizing the intense emotions involved.

Cultural Context

  • In various cultures, the concept of a paramour has been viewed with both romance and scandal, reflecting societal norms around love.
  • During the Victorian era, the term was often associated with taboo relationships, creating an air of intrigue.
  • Today, 'paramours' can encompass various forms of love, including LGBTQ+ relationships, showing evolving meanings of love.

History

  • Historically, many famous figures, including kings and queens, had paramours, which sometimes influenced politics and royal succession.
  • The French court was known for its paramours, which played significant roles in both scandal and governance.
  • The practice of having a paramour was often more accepted then, raising questions about fidelity and loyalty.

Psychology

  • The emotional connection with a paramour can lead to intense feelings of passion, often causing complications in other relationships.
  • Research shows that having a secret lover can produce high levels of excitement but also significant stress.
  • The dynamics of love can shift dramatically when one or both individuals are involved with others, revealing deeper relational patterns.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,487, 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.