prostitution
UK: ˌprɒstɪˈtjuːʃən | US: ˌprɑːstɪˈtuːʃən
n. the act or practice of engaging in sexual activity for payment
n. the debasement or misuse of a skill or talent for unworthy purposes
prostitution = prostitut<offer for sale> + ion<noun suffix>
- prostitut (from Latin prostituere: pro- <forward> + statuere <to place, set up>, implying "to expose publicly for sale")
- ion (noun-forming suffix indicating action or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin prostituere, combining pro- (forward/publicly) and statuere (to place). Originally, it referred to exposing something (or someone) for sale, later narrowing to sexual exchange. The suffix -ion nominalizes the action, reflecting its modern sense of commodification.
The city implemented stricter laws to combat street prostitution.
Many activists fight for the rights of women trapped in prostitution.
He argued that celebrity culture often leads to the prostitution of talent.
Historical records reveal prostitution was regulated in ancient Rome.
The documentary explored the psychological impact of prostitution.