Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒn.kjʊˌbaɪn/

Definitions

• A woman who lives with a man but is not legally married to him, especially in a society where such relationships are accepted.
• A woman in a polygamous relationship who is not a wife but has a recognized relationship with a man.
• In historical contexts, a woman who has a relationship with a man of high rank or authority, often without legal recognition.

Usage Examples

• In ancient times, a concubine often held a lower social status than a wife, yet could bear children for her partner.
• The king had several concubines, but only one official queen.
• The social stigma surrounding concubinage has diminished in some modern cultures, while in others, it is still frowned upon.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "concubina," meaning "one who lies with," from the verb "concumbere" ("to lie down together"). Historically, concubines were women who lived with a man but did not have the legal status of a wife. The term has been used in many ancient cultures, often relating to hierarchical relationships.

Synonyms

• Mistress
• Paramour
• Consort
• Secondary wife
• Common-law partner

Antonyms

• Wife
• Spouse
• Partner

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "concubine" is typically pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable: /ˈkɒn.kjʊˌbaɪn/.
• In American English, the pronunciation tends to smooth the middle syllable: /kənˈkjuːˌbaɪn/.

Historical Usage

The term "concubine" has historical significance in many societies, often referring to women who lived with men outside of marriage. In cultures with polygamous traditions, concubines were sometimes regarded as secondary wives. The term has had varying connotations depending on the time and place, from being a respected companion to a man to being viewed as a marginalized figure in society.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, concubinage was a socially acceptable arrangement, particularly in societies where polygamy was practiced. Concubines often held a place of prestige or importance, especially if they bore children for a man of high rank. However, their status was often not equal to that of wives, and in some societies, concubines had no legal rights or protection. Over time, the concept of concubinage has become less common, especially in societies with stricter views on marriage.

More Information

The term "concubine" reflects historical societal practices and relationships, which were often shaped by cultural, social, and economic forces. While the concept of concubinage is no longer as widely accepted today, it remains an important historical term, especially in studies of ancient civilizations. Concubines were not always women of low status; in some contexts, they held considerable influence, such as in royal courts. Today, the word "concubine" is most commonly used in academic discussions about ancient cultures and polygamous societies.