loose woman
Definition
Noun: A woman who engages in sexual relationships outside of marriage, or who is perceived as being sexually promiscuous. This term is dated and carries a strong negative, judgmental connotation.
Usage
The term "loose woman" is used as a noun to label or describe a woman based on perceived sexual behavior. It is considered archaic and pejorative. Its use is generally discouraged in modern, respectful discourse.
Examples
- The scandalous novel of the 19th century often featured a loose woman as a cautionary character.
- He warned his son to stay away from what he called a loose woman.
- The term "loose woman" reflects the double standards of its time, judging women more harshly than men for similar behavior.
Advanced Usage
- Historical/Literary Context: The term is primarily encountered in historical texts, classic literature, or discussions about past social attitudes. It is used to analyze historical perspectives on gender and morality.
- In Victorian literature, the fate of the loose woman was often tragic.
Variants and Related Words
- Adulteress (noun): A married woman who commits adultery. This is a more specific legal or religious term.
- Wanton (noun/adj): As a noun (archaic), a wanton is a sexually unrestrained person, especially a woman. As an adjective, it describes such behavior.
- Strumpet (noun): An archaic and derogatory term for a female prostitute or a promiscuous woman.
- Trollop (noun): An old-fashioned, insulting word for a woman considered sexually immoral or slovenly.
Synonyms
- Promiscuous woman
- Libertine (though this can apply to any gender)
- Fallen woman (an archaic, melodramatic synonym)
Antonyms
- Chaste woman
- Virtuous woman
- Modest woman
Notes on Usage
- Connotation: "Loose woman" is deeply sexist and stigmatizing. It originates from and reinforces patriarchal standards that police female sexuality.
- Modern Sensitivity: Contemporary language favors more neutral, non-judgmental terms if such description is necessary (e.g., "a person with multiple partners"). The term itself is best used only in quotation marks to discuss its historical or sociological significance, not to label individuals.
Noun
-
a woman adulterer
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