Brothels are establishments where individuals can engage in sexual activities in exchange for money. These establishments have been around for centuries and have been a subject of controversy and debate. While some people advocate for their legalization, others believe that they should be banned. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of brothels.
Definitions
A brothel is a place where people engage in sexual activities in exchange for money. It is an establishment where prostitutes offer their services to clients. The term “brothel” is often used interchangeably with “whorehouse,” “house of ill repute,” and “bordello.”
Origin
The origin of brothels can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In these societies, prostitution was legal and regulated. However, with the rise of Christianity, prostitution was deemed immoral and illegal. This led to the establishment of illegal brothels that operated underground.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of brothels in different dictionaries is consistent. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a brothel is “a house of prostitution.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a brothel as “a house or other place where men pay to have sexual intercourse with prostitutes.”
Associations
Brothels are often associated with crime, exploitation, and human trafficking. Many people believe that the women who work in brothels are forced into the profession and are victims of abuse. However, this is not always the case. There are women who choose to work in brothels as a means of making a living.
Synonyms
The synonyms of brothels include whorehouse, bordello, house of ill repute, and cathouse.
Antonyms
The antonyms of brothels include monogamy, fidelity, and chastity.
The same root words
The same root words as brothels include “prostitute,” “prostitution,” and “sex work.”
Example Sentences
- The police raided the brothel and arrested several prostitutes and clients.
- The city council is considering legalizing brothels to regulate the sex industry.
- She worked at a brothel to pay for her college tuition.
- The brothel was shut down by the authorities for violating health and safety regulations.
- He was caught soliciting sex from a prostitute outside a brothel.