red-light district

noun

1. an area or district in a city in which many houses of prostitution are located.

Word History and Origins

Origin of red-light district¹

First recorded in 1890–95; allegedly so called because brothels displayed red lights

Example Sentences

Police now acknowledge that the red-light district has mutated into a global hub for human trafficking and money laundering.

From The Daily Beast

“Scarlet Town,” a dark and hypnotic ballad, depicts a red-light district of the soul, with a hushed and craggy croon.

From The Daily Beast

They could not afford to have a messenger service in this town at night if it were not for the red light district.

From Project Gutenberg

Only last year an extensive red-light district was closed effectively and once for all.

From Project Gutenberg

They also boast that none of their women may be found among the denizens of the red-light district.

From Project Gutenberg

Across the street from her shirt shop, where the red light district begins, is a bar frequented by natives, soldiers and sailors.

From Project Gutenberg

There is also a notorious and wide-open red-light district that is a disgrace to a modern and supposedly civilized town.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bordello