Philanderer: meaning, definitions and examples

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philanderer

 

[fɪˈlændərər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

person's behavior

A philanderer is someone who habitually seeks sexual or romantic relationships with multiple partners and is not committed to any one person.

Synonyms

flirt, player, womanizer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
philanderer

Used to describe a man who engages in love affairs frivolously or casually, often with a negative connotation implying deceit or irresponsibility.

  • He's known as a philanderer who breaks hearts wherever he goes.
  • The philanderer was caught seeing multiple women at the same time.
womanizer

Specifically refers to a man who has numerous casual sexual relationships with women. It often implies a pattern of behavior and carries a negative connotation.

  • His reputation as a womanizer made it hard for him to find a serious partner.
  • She broke up with him after realizing he was a womanizer.
flirt

Refers to someone who behaves as if they are attracted to other people in a playful, often casual, way. This term can be used for both men and women, and is less negative compared to 'philanderer'.

  • She’s such a flirt; she's always making everyone smile.
  • He tends to flirt with everyone at the party, but it’s all in good fun.
player

Describes someone, often a man, who engages in multiple romantic or sexual relationships without commitment. It carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting manipulation or a lack of sincerity.

  • Be careful, he's a known player and doesn't take relationships seriously.
  • She got tired of dating players who never wanted anything serious.

Examples of usage

  • He was known as a notorious philanderer, breaking hearts wherever he went.
  • The tabloids were full of stories about the philanderer's latest scandalous escapades.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'philandros' which means 'fond of men' or 'affectionate to men'.
  • Initially, it described a lover but evolved over time to imply someone who flirts or is not faithful.

Cultural References

  • Literature has long depicted 'philanderers' as charming but ultimately untrustworthy, such as in works by famous authors like Henry James.
  • In modern media, characters like James Bond often embody the archetype of the philanderer, showcasing intrigues that are exciting yet problematic.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that individuals who engage in multiple relationships may exhibit personality traits such as impulsivity and low commitment.
  • The sociological concept of 'serial monogamy' relates closely, indicating a pattern of short-lived relationships instead of multiple partners at once.

History

  • Historical figures such as Lord Byron and Casanova are often referenced as philanderers, earning a mix of admiration and condemnation for their romantic escapades.
  • Legal and social norms regarding fidelity have evolved; in some cultures, wandering relationships were once accepted or even celebrated.

Contemporary Issues

  • In today's society, the concept has become more scrutinized, particularly with the rise of social media and its impact on romantic relationships.
  • The idea of polyamory, where consensual non-monogamous relationships are accepted, challenges traditional views on philanderers.

Translations

Translations of the word "philanderer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mulherengo

🇮🇳 व्यभिचारी

🇩🇪 Schürzenjäger

🇮🇩 tukang gombal

🇺🇦 бабій

🇵🇱 kobietarz

🇯🇵 浮気者 (uwakimono)

🇫🇷 coureur de jupons

🇪🇸 mujeriego

🇹🇷 zampara

🇰🇷 바람둥이 (baramdungi)

🇸🇦 زير نساء (zir nisa')

🇨🇿 sukničkář

🇸🇰 sukničkár

🇨🇳 花花公子 (huāhuā gōngzǐ)

🇸🇮 ženskar

🇮🇸 kvennabósi

🇰🇿 әйелқұмар (äyelqumar)

🇬🇪 ქალთამგრძნობი (k'alt'amgzrmobi)

🇦🇿 qadın düşkünü

🇲🇽 mujeriego

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,123, 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.