πουτάνες
Wordform Details
Translation: prostitutewhore
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininepluralnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: πουτάνα
Translation: prostitute; whore; hooker (noun)
Etymology: From Italian 'puttana' (prostitute), which derives from Latin 'putidus' meaning 'stinking, rotten'. The word entered Greek during periods of Italian influence, particularly in coastal and island regions that had Venetian presence.
Mnemonics
- Sounds like 'put on a' which could remind you that prostitutes 'put on a show' or 'put on an act'
- Connection to Italian 'puttana' which is more widely known internationally
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
This is a highly offensive term in Greek culture. While it literally refers to a prostitute, it's commonly used as a general insult toward women. The word carries strong negative connotations and should be avoided in polite conversation. It appears in many Greek expressions and idioms related to betrayal or immoral behavior.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'πουτάνα' refers to the person (prostitute/whore), 'πουτανιά' refers to an act of betrayal or promiscuous behavior.
This word:
Αυτή είναι πουτάνα.
She is a whore.
Notes: Both terms are highly offensive and vulgar in Greek.
Mnemonic: 'Πουτάνα' ends with 'α' like 'persona', referring to the person; 'πουτανιά' ends with 'ιά' like 'action' in English, referring to the act.