prostituto
“prostituto” means “male prostitute” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
male prostitute
Also: sex worker
📝 In Action
En la película, el protagonista trabaja como prostituto.
A2In the movie, the main character works as a male prostitute.
Muchos países tienen leyes diferentes para un prostituto y para una prostituta.
B1Many countries have different laws for a male prostitute and a female prostitute.
Él decidió ser prostituto para pagar sus deudas.
B2He decided to be a male prostitute to pay off his debts.
corrupted
Also: venal
📝 In Action
Criticó el arte prostituto que solo busca el dinero.
C1He criticized the corrupted art that only seeks money.
Es un talento prostituto, vendido al mejor postor.
C2It is a corrupted talent, sold to the highest bidder.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: prostituto
Question 1 of 3
Which word would you use to describe a woman who is a sex worker?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'prostitutus,' which is the past form of 'prostituere.' This literally means 'to place out in front' or 'to expose publicly,' referring to people being put on display for sale.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'prostituto' a common word?
It is less common than 'prostituta' because the industry has historically focused more on women, but it is the correct and standard term for a male in that profession.
Can 'prostituto' be used for a gigolo?
Yes, although 'gigoló' specifically implies a man who is supported by a wealthy woman, whereas 'prostituto' is a more general term for sex work.
Does this word always have a negative meaning?
As a noun, it describes a profession. However, because of social views, it is often used with a negative tone. As an adjective, it is almost always negative.