Strumpet: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from Middle English, where it was related to the term 'strumpen', meaning to use someone dishonorably.
• It can be traced back to the Old French word 'estrumpette', which similarly had negative connotations towards women.

Literature

• In Shakespeare's play 'Henry V', the term appears, shedding light on social attitudes toward women during that time.
• Charles Dickens also used the term in his writing, reinforcing its association with moral judgment and societal standards.

Cultural Impact

• Historically, the term was used to shame women for their sexual behaviors, reflecting the strict gender norms of society.
• It has been reclaimed by some artists and writers to challenge and subvert its negative implications.

Modern Usage

• Today, while 'strumpet' isn't commonly used, it still appears in discussions about historical perspectives on women's roles and sexuality.
• In contemporary contexts, the term often sparks discussions about misogyny and the labeling of women based on behavior.

Psychology

• The stigma attached to words like 'strumpet' can contribute to societal perceptions of women, affecting self-image and relationships.
• Studies show that derogatory terms can perpetuate stereotypes, influencing how women are viewed and treated in various contexts.

This word's position of #34,234 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

• ...
• 34231 glace
• 34232 cinched
• 34233 elusiveness
• 34234 strumpet
• 34235 polychromatic
• 34236 covenanting
• 34237 mistreat
• ...