Bawdies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. A term referring to the physical body, often used in a context that highlights the sensual or aesthetic qualities of the human form
  2. it can also imply a focus on the behavior associated with physicality or indulgence
  3. in some contexts, it may denote a group of people characterized by their physical presence or allure

Etymology: The term "bawdies" traces back to the late Middle English period, where it originally referred to a person who kept a brothel or was involved in procuring. The word’s roots are closely linked to the notion of lewdness and licentious behavior, reflecting social attitudes toward such figures in medieval and early modern England. Its earliest recorded uses appear in the 15th century, showing a connection to the Old French "baudir," meaning to boast or brag, which itself likely stems from a Germanic source. Over time, the meaning shifted from a focus on boastfulness or loud behavior to a more specific association with immorality and sexual vice, especially in the context of individuals running or frequenting establishments of ill repute. The suffix "-ie" or "-y" in English often forms diminutives or familiar terms, but in this case, it served to create a noun denoting a person characterized by the root behavior. Thus, "bawdy" as an adjective meaning humorously indecent or risqué eventually gave rise to "bawdie" as a noun for someone embodying that indecency, particularly a pander or a procurer. By the 17th century, the plural form "bawdies" was well established in English, commonly used in literature and legal texts to describe those involved in vice-related activities. The term carries a distinctly pejorative tone, reflecting social condemnation as much as descriptive accuracy. This word shares a root with the adjective "bawdy," which today often retains a lighter, more humorous sense connected to risqué humor, whereas the noun form remains more connected to its original, more serious connotations of sexual exploitation and immorality.

Synonyms: prostitutes, whores, harlots, strumpets, courtesans

Antonyms: virgins, maidens, chaste women