bawd

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a woman who engages in sexual intercourse for money

Etymology

From Middle English bawde, baude, from Old French baud (“bold, lively, jolly, gay”). Doublet of bold. An association with Welsh bawddyn (“dirty fellow, scoundrel”), from baw (“dirt”), was suggested by the Rev. Henry Todd.

In classic literature

Synonyms

prostitute, cocotte, whore, harlot, tart, cyprian, fancy woman, working girl, sporting lady, lady of pleasure, woman of the street

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