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

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

From Salon

But in order to continue to deflate Trump and support for him, Democrats have to keep making him look weak and pathetic and show themselves to be confident leaders who never avoid the truth, never fear Trump and never pander.

From Salon

It’s a screed against the worst kind of rich, those who fetishize the working class to pander to them.

From Los Angeles Times

He decided to pander to the worst people on the internet by smearing an Olympic athlete he knows nothing about.

From Salon

And don’t forget the candidates who shamelessly pander to audiences at the expense of others.

From Seattle Times