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View synonyms for bawd

bawd

[ bawd ]

noun

, Archaic.
  1. a woman who maintains a brothel; madam.
  2. a prostitute.
  3. a procuress.


bawd

/ bɔːd /

noun

  1. a person who runs a brothel, esp a woman
  2. a prostitute
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Word History and Origins

Origin of bawd1

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English bawde, noun use of Middle French baude, feminine of baud “jolly, dissolute,” from West Germanic; compare Old English bald bold
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Word History and Origins

Origin of bawd1

C14: shortened from Old French baudetrot , from baude feminine of baud merry + trot one who runs errands; compare Old High German bald bold
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Example Sentences

Cartedcarried in a cart through the streets, by way of punishment or public exposure (especially as the punishment of a bawd).

Bawd prior to 1700 was a term applied to men as well asand, indeed, more frequently thanto women.

At which the Bawd look'd a little strangely upon him; I help you to one, Sir, said she?

You may depend upon it, says the Bawd, that sh'll comply; but you must Fee her pretty high, or it won't do.

If I go out into the street and strike down a bawd—a thing lower than the lowest animal and more noxious—I hang.

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