Definition

A woman who is unfaithful to her spouse by having a romantic or sexual relationship with someone else.

Example

The novel's protagonist was an adulteress, struggling with the consequences of her actions.

Conversation

Did you hear about that scandal in town?

Yeah, I did! They called her an adulteress in the news.

It's crazy how quickly rumors spread, isn't it?

Definitely! I hope she finds a way to clear her name.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adulteress → It is formed from "adulterare" (meaning to corrupt or make impure) and the suffix "-ess" (meaning a female). The word refers to a woman who engages in sexual relations outside of marriage, thus corrupting the sanctity of the marital bond.

Memory Tip

Think of a woman who 'corrupts' the marital bond ('adulterare') — that's why an adulteress is a woman who is unfaithful in marriage.

Visually Confused Words