temptress
|temp/tress|
C1
/ˈtɛmptɹɪs/
seductive woman
Etymology
Etymology Information
'temptress' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'tempter,' where 'tempt-' meant 'to entice or allure.'
Historical Evolution
'tempter' transformed into the feminine form 'temptress' in the 16th century, reflecting the gendered nature of the term.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a person who tempts,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a woman who tempts.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a woman who tempts someone to do something, often with a seductive or alluring manner.
The novel's protagonist was ensnared by a cunning temptress.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41