noun
concubine
KAHNGK-yuh-byn
Concubine (noun) means Historically, a woman who lived with a man in a sexual relationship without being his wife, often with lower social status. Example: “In some royal courts, a concubine could bear children but never inherit as a wife would.”
noun
1
Historically, a woman who lived with a man in a sexual relationship without being his wife, often with lower social status.
"In some royal courts, a concubine could bear children but never inherit as a wife would."
How to use concubine
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA historical term for a woman in a lasting sexual relationship with a man to whom she is not married.
When to use it
Mostly used in historical, literary, or academic contexts rather than everyday speech.
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Word forms
- Plural
- concubines
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
In some royal courts, a _____ could bear children but never inherit as a wife would.
Etymology
From Latin concubina, from concumbere ("to lie together"), plus the feminine suffix -ina.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for concubine
See all rhymes for concubine →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of concubine?
"concubine" (noun) means historically, a woman who lived with a man in a sexual relationship without being his wife, often with lower social status.
What is another word for concubine?
Other words for "concubine" include paramour, courtesan, doxy.
How do you use concubine in a sentence?
Example: "In some royal courts, a concubine could bear children but never inherit as a wife would."
