Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdɒk.si/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A woman who is a lover or mistress of a man, often used in a derogatory or informal context.

2. (Noun) A person who is involved in a romantic or sexual relationship outside of marriage, typically considered disreputable or immoral.

3. (Noun) A colloquial term referring to a woman employed by a man for personal or sexual favors.

Usage Examples

• The man’s relationship with his doxy was the subject of much gossip.
• She had once been his doxy, but now she was a respected member of society.
• He kept a doxy at his home, hidden from his wife and children.

Etymology

The word "doxy" originated in the 16th century, likely derived from the word "dock," which was a slang term for a prostitute or a lover. The term was often used disparagingly to describe a woman in a sexual or romantic relationship with a man without the formality of marriage. Over time, it became a more generalized term, still retaining its negative connotations, though it is less commonly used in contemporary language.

Synonyms

• Mistress
• Concubine
• Paramour
• Lover
• Kept woman

Antonyms

• Wife
• Spouse
• Partner

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈdɒk.si/
• British English: /ˈdɒk.si/
• Australian English: /ˈdɒk.si/

Historical Usage

The word "doxy" was commonly used during the 16th to 18th centuries in literature, particularly as a reference to a mistress or kept woman. It was often used in a derogatory manner to describe women who were in relationships with men without formal marriages. The term has been largely replaced in contemporary times by more neutral or euphemistic terms, but it can still be found in historical texts, particularly in older works of literature.

Cultural Nuances

The term "doxy" carries a strong negative connotation, especially when used in historical contexts, as it refers to a woman in an illicit or immoral relationship. In many cultures, the role of a mistress or lover has been stigmatized, and terms like "doxy" reflect the historical judgment placed on women outside of marriage. However, in modern contexts, the term has mostly fallen out of use, with a more neutral or positive focus on relationships that deviate from traditional norms.

More Information

The term "doxy" is rarely used in contemporary language but was once a popular term in older English. It is often seen in literature, particularly in plays and novels written during the Victorian era, where it was used to describe relationships that did not follow social or moral expectations. The term has fallen into obscurity, but understanding its historical usage is important for students of literature, history, and cultural studies, as it offers insight into societal attitudes towards women and relationships during specific time periods.