slut
UK: slʌt | US: slʌt
n. a derogatory term for a woman perceived as promiscuous or sexually unrestrained
n. (archaic) a slovenly or untidy woman
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The word "slut" originated in Middle English (circa 1400) as "sleuthe," meaning "a dirty, untidy woman," derived from the Old Norse root slóð (loose, slack). By the 15th century, it evolved to imply moral laxity, particularly in women. The modern sexual connotation emerged in the 17th century, reflecting societal shifts in gender norms. The morpheme "sl-" retains its original association with looseness, while "-ut" likely functioned as a pejorative suffix.
The term "slut" is often used to shame women for their sexuality.
In Chaucer's era, "slut" referred to a messy housemaid.
She rejected the label of "slut" as a sexist double standard.
Historical texts show how "slut" shifted from describing hygiene to morality.
Modern movements aim to reclaim and destigmatize the word.