What does pimp mean Meaning and Definition
What does pimp mean
Pronunciation
/pɪmp/
Part of Speech
Noun Verb
Definition
A person who manages or supervises prostitutes and takes a share of their earnings, often by providing a place of operations or other services. Alternatively, the word can connote promoting or boosting something to gain a large amount of attention and admiration. , However, other uses include an older sense of pimping or procuring for brothels, or the act of corrupting something for one’s own advantage.
Etymology
The word ‘pimp’ has its origins in the 14th century, derived from the Middle English word ‘pimpen’, a term for a procurer or manager, possibly related to the Old French word ‘pimper’ or the Latin words ‘pempti’ or ‘pementum’, both referring to procurers. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to describe not only the management of prostitutes but also promoting or boosting something for fame or profit.
Usage Notes
In formal or professional contexts, it’s often more suitable to avoid the use of the word ‘pimp’ and instead opt for more neutral terms. Be cautious with different pronunciations to understand what is being discussed as there are multiple phrases able to use the term ‘pimp.’
Examples
- The young adult’s new found career as a model was looking at being pimped out in various campaigns to increase exposure.
- There is an understandable stigma attached to the term pimp due to the history of exploitation it is associated with.
Synonyms
- Pimp
- Madame
Antonyms
- Servant
- Helper
Additional Information
The history of the term “pimp” is connected to historical professions of procuring, yet is rapidly broadening to include promoting in modern conversation. Despite its current transformation, negative associations still follow the term as there is clear historical precedent for corruption. The term ‘pimp’ has primarily been connected with the exploitation of sex workers. In contrast, the phrase “pimp out” has appeared in conversations of upgrading or decorating vehicles, while being a less commonly seen usage. Most people hold negative or negative-perceived senses of ‘pimping,’ causing some individuals to be exposed to less desirable repercussions upon naming usage the word verbally.
Cultural References
References to the term “pimp” can be found in various forms of media, including music and film. Specifically, the terms used within popular lyrics range in usage and commonality, where certain artists have more publicized uses of the term within their works.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
When wanting to say “to pimp,” the following are other widely recognized phrases:
- One-up
- Butt-trip
- Twist on
Related Words or Phrases
Similar phrases or words with closely related meanings include:
- Dealer
- Fixer
Collocations
Given the complex history of the term, there are connections with ‘who,’ in terms of an exploitative system as such “What’s the pimp of this business model” or any statement such as the “He caused the demise of their pimp and became infuences to the whole company as a whole by the pimped resources due.” In broader terms there are the application of words in business and other professional environments such as: pimp out.
Frequency of Use
The frequency of use of the term “pimp” has peaked in popular media, but its use in professional settings may be discouraged due to its association with exploitation. The term is commonly used in informal settings without negative undertones connected to the historical context.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings may be due to alternative spellings related to similar word usage:
- pimm
- pimie
- pimmie