concubine Definition
- 1a woman who lives with a man but has a lower status than his wife or wives, often having sexual relationships with him
- 2an outdated term for a mistress
Using concubine: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "concubine" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
In ancient China, concubines were common among wealthy men.
Example
She was his concubine for many years before he finally married her.
Example
The king had many concubines in his palace.
concubine Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for concubine
- paramour
- mistress
- kept woman
Phrases with concubine
Example
The king's favorite concubine was known for her beauty and intelligence.
concubine's son
a son born to a man and his concubine, who has a lower status than the children born to his wife or wives
Example
The concubine's son was not allowed to inherit his father's wealth or property.
concubine's quarters
a separate living area for a man's concubines in a palace or large household
Example
The concubine's quarters were located in a secluded part of the palace.
Origins of concubine
from Latin 'concubina', meaning 'a woman who lives with a man without being his wife'
Summary: concubine in Brief
A 'concubine' [ˈkɑːŋkjubaɪn] is a woman who lives with a man but has a lower status than his wife or wives, often having sexual relationships with him. It can also refer to an outdated term for a mistress. The term is commonly used in historical contexts, such as ancient China, where wealthy men often had concubines. Other phrases include 'royal concubine,' 'concubine's son,' and 'concubine's quarters.'
