pander

[ pan-der ]

verb (used without object)

1. to cater to or profit from the weaknesses or vices of others:

   to pander to the vile tastes of the vulgar masses.

verb (used with object)

1. to act as a pimp or procurer of clients for (a prostitute).

noun

1. a panderer.

pander

/ ˈpændə /

verb

1. intrfoll byto to give gratification (to weaknesses or desires)
2. archaic when tr to act as a go-between in a sexual intrigue (for)

noun

1. a person who caters for vulgar desires, esp in order to make money
2. a person who procures a sexual partner for another; pimp

Other Words From

• pan·der·age noun
• pan·der·ism noun
• pan·der·ly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pander¹

First recorded in 1325–75; earlier pandar(e), generalized use of Middle English name Pandare Pandarus

Word History and Origins

Origin of pander¹

C16 (n): from Pandare Pandarus

Example Sentences

This is contemporary sound to dispel clichéd fears of abrasive modernism while never cheaply pandering to mass appeal.

From New York Times

“It’s so self deprecating without being pandering, you know?”

From Los Angeles Times

Some on the left are trying to compete with MAGA's empty pandering by arguing that real masculinity is rooted in the courage to reject bigoted nonsense.

From Salon

Trump likes to pander to voters who don’t want endless wars, but his actual policies as president kept them going.

From Salon

At least rhetorically and stylistically, Trump’s administration was defined by his constant pandering to his biggest fans.

From Los Angeles Times