hetaera

Phryne revealed before the Areopagus (1861) by w:Jean-Léon GérômeJean-Léon Gérôme. The painting depicts w:PhrynePhryne, a famous hetaera of w:Ancient GreeceAncient Greece, on trial before the Areopagus.

Meaning

Noun

  • A highly cultivated hired female companion who would entertain upper-class male clients and might perform sex acts for them.
  • A mistress.

Origin

  • From Ancient Greek ἑταῖρα, feminine of ἑταῖρος.

Modern English dictionary

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