Definition

A woman who is a concubine or a slave, often found in a harem, typically associated with historical contexts.

Example

The artist painted an odalisque lounging gracefully on a divan.

Conversation

I recently read a book that featured an odalisque in the storyline.

Oh really? What was the book about?

It explored the life of women in harems, focusing on one particular odalisque.

That sounds fascinating! I love stories that dive into historical contexts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Odalisque comes from the French word 'odalisque', which is derived from the Turkish 'odalık' (meaning chambermaid or female slave). The term originally referred to a female slave or concubine in a harem, particularly in the context of Ottoman culture. The word reflects the historical role of women in such settings, often depicted in art and literature.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'chambermaid' ('odalık') in a harem, which helps you remember that an 'odalisque' refers to a woman in such a role.

Visually Confused Words