Definition

A woman who lives with a man and has a recognized relationship with him, but is not legally married to him, often having lower status than a wife.

Example

In ancient times, a concubine could bear children for a man without the legal status of a wife.

Conversation

Have you ever read about the concept of a concubine?

Yeah, it’s quite interesting how it was common in some cultures.

Right? It makes you think about the different views on relationships.

Absolutely! It's fascinating how social norms vary across history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Concubine → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "cubare" (meaning to lie down). The word refers to a woman who lives with a man in a relationship akin to marriage but without the full legal status of a wife, thus implying a shared living arrangement.

Memory Tip

Think of a woman who 'lies down' ('cubare') with a man 'together' ('con-') in a relationship that resembles marriage.

Visually Confused Words