Synonyms

prostitution

American

[pros-ti-too-shuhn, -tyoo-] / ˌprɒs tɪˈtu ʃən, -ˈtyu- /

noun

the act or practice of engaging in sex acts, as sexual intercourse, for money.
base or unworthy use, as of talent or ability.

Other Word Forms

antiprostitution adjective

Etymology

Origin of prostitution

First recorded in 1545–55; from Late Latin prōstitūtiōn- (stem of prōstitūtiō ); prostitute, -ion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Madrid hosted two demonstrations in the centre of the Spanish capital -- one for transgender rights and the other for the legalisation and regulation of prostitution.

From Barron's • Mar. 8, 2026

Trump has denied wrongdoing and said his friendship with Epstein ended before Epstein pleaded guilty to procuring a minor for prostitution in 2008.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

Sean "Diddy" Combs and his lawyers returned to New York federal court on Thursday to ask a judge to vacate his prostitution convictions or grant a new trial.

From BBC • Sep. 25, 2025

He had saved three girls from prostitution by throwing bags of gold through their window late at night—a legend that is the origin of his role as a gift giver to children.

From Slate • Dec. 15, 2024

Articles in the paper covered feminism, suffrage, sex education, legalized prostitution, vegetarianism, women in the military, and spiritualism.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023