courtesan
3 synonyms for courtesan, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Historically, a woman — often glamorous and educated — who had wealthy or high-status men as lovers or clients, sometimes at a royal court.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Middle French courtisane, from Italian cortigiana (feminine of cortigiano, "courtier"), ultimately from "court."
Full origin of courtesan →Frequently asked questions
What does “courtesan” mean?
The word “courtesan” means historically, a woman — often glamorous and educated — who had wealthy or high-status men as lovers or clients, sometimes at a royal court. In plain terms, a historical term for a woman who had relationships with wealthy or noble men, often in exchange for support.
How do you pronounce “courtesan”?
“Courtesan” is pronounced kaw-tih-ZAN (/ˈkɔɹtɪzən/ in IPA).
How do you use “courtesan” in a sentence?
Here is “courtesan” used in a sentence: “The novel is set in the world of Venetian courtesans during the Renaissance.”
What part of speech is “courtesan”?
“Courtesan” is a noun.
Where does the word “courtesan” come from?
The word “courtesan” comes from Middle French. From Middle French courtisane, from Italian cortigiana (feminine of cortigiano, "courtier"), ultimately from "court.".
