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Pimping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pimping

[ˈpɪmpɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sexual exploitation

Pimping refers to the practice of controlling and exploiting individuals, typically sex workers, for profit. It involves managing their activities, handling clients, and taking a portion of their earnings. Pimping is often associated with criminal activities and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Synonyms

prostitution management, sexual exploitation, trafficking.

Examples of usage

  • The police cracked down on pimping in the city.
  • He was arrested for his involvement in pimping activities.
  • Pimping is a serious crime that affects many lives.
Context #2 | Verb

enhancing appearance

To pimp can also mean to enhance or customize something, often referring to vehicles or fashion. This usage is informal and is commonly used in phrases like 'pimp my ride', suggesting that something is being made more impressive or flashy.

Synonyms

customize, enhance, upgrade.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to pimp his car with new rims.
  • They want to pimp the house before selling it.
  • She loves to pimp her outfits with accessories.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term gained widespread attention in the early 2000s due to its use in music and entertainment, particularly in hip-hop culture.
  • Television shows and films often depict characters who use this term to describe upgrading their lifestyle or possessions.

Sociology

  • Pimping has been associated with the exploitation of individuals, particularly in the context of sex work.
  • The practice raises discussions about consent, agency, and inequality in society.

Fashion

  • In fashion, 'pimping' has been adopted to refer to customizing clothes and accessories to reflect personal style.
  • It’s part of a bigger trend where people modify their belongings to showcase individuality.

Linguistics

  • The word is often used in various contexts, resulting in different meanings, from straightforward to slang.
  • Its usage can vary greatly in tone, from playful to derogatory, depending on the audience.

Origin of 'pimping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French word 'pimper,' which means to decorate or adorn.
  • It was originally used in the 17th century to refer to someone who looks after a woman.

The term 'pimp' has origins that trace back to the 17th century, derived from the French word 'pimper', which means to dress up or adorn. Initially, it referred to someone who dressed elegantly or in a showy manner. Over time, the term evolved in the English language to represent those who manage sex workers for profit. This negative connotation associated with exploitation solidified in the 19th century as the practice became more documented. The word 'pimping' emerged as a gerund form to describe the ongoing act of managing and exploiting individuals involved in the sex trade. Furthermore, in contemporary slang, 'pimping' has taken on a dual meaning, where it can refer to enhancing something stylishly, reflecting a cultural shift in its usage across different contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,546, 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.