Prostitution: meaning, definitions and examples
💵
prostitution
[ prɒsˈtɪtʃ.uːʃən ]
illegal activity
Prostitution is the act of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money or goods. This practice can involve a range of activities and may take place in various settings, such as brothels, streets, or online platforms. Prostitution is often associated with various legal, social, and ethical issues, and it can have significant implications for the well-being of individuals involved. In many places, it is considered illegal, while in others, it exists within regulated frameworks.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She was arrested for prostitution.
- The city implemented new laws regarding street prostitution.
- Some advocates argue for the legalization of prostitution.
- He works in the sex industry as a form of prostitution.
Translations
Translations of the word "prostitution" in other languages:
🇵🇹 prostituição
🇮🇳 वेश्यावृत्ति
🇩🇪 Prostitution
🇮🇩 prostitusi
🇺🇦 проституція
🇵🇱 prostytucja
🇯🇵 売春
🇫🇷 prostitution
🇪🇸 prostitución
🇹🇷 fuhuş
🇰🇷 매춘
🇸🇦 البغاء
🇨🇿 prostituce
🇸🇰 prostitúcia
🇨🇳 卖淫
🇸🇮 prostitucija
🇮🇸 fórn
🇰🇿 жезөкшелік
🇬🇪 ვेश्यაობა
🇦🇿 prostitusiya
🇲🇽 prostitución
Etymology
The word 'prostitution' comes from the Latin 'prostitutio', meaning 'to offer publicly'. This term is derived from 'prostituere', which breaks down into 'pro-' (meaning 'for') and 'statuere' (meaning 'to set up' or 'to place'). The practice of exchanging sexual services for payment has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Throughout the ages, attitudes towards prostitution have varied widely, with some cultures integrating it into their social and religious practices, and others criminalizing it. By the 19th century, the term became more widely used, particularly in discussions surrounding legal reform and moral debates about sexual ethics. The stigma attached to prostitution often reflects broader societal views on sexuality, gender roles, and power dynamics within communities.