prostitution

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the practice or occupation of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money or other payment

   The report examined how poverty and coercion can push vulnerable people into prostitution.

2. 2
   noun

   the debasement or misuse of a talent, principle, or institution for gain

   The critic called the dishonest advertisement a prostitution of scientific expertise.

From Late Latin prostitutio, from Latin prostituere, 'to expose publicly or offer for sale,' formed from pro-, 'before or in front of,' and statuere, 'to place or set up.' The figurative sense extends the idea of offering something valuable for unworthy gain.

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