What does trollop mean?
A trollop is a woman regarded as sexually disreputable, promiscuous, or otherwise lacking in conventional morality. The word is chiefly associated with British English, where it has a long history as a derogatory label for women, including prostitutes. In earlier usage it could be a comparatively direct term for a sex worker; in modern contexts it more often functions as a vicious personal insult implying sexual promiscuity or loose moral standards. Although dictionaries record it as a standard English noun, ordinary speakers rarely use it except when quoting hostile language, recounting literature, or deliberately insulting someone. Its force depends on an explicitly gendered and morally condemnatory view of women’s sexual conduct. The term is therefore chiefly of historical and linguistic interest rather than neutral descriptive vocabulary.
nounA strongly derogatory term for a woman regarded as sexually disreputable or of loose morals. Historically, it was also used as a direct term for a prostitute.
- A derogatory term for a woman considered sexually disreputable, promiscuous, or of loose morals.
- Historically, a prostitute or a woman associated with prostitution.
"In the play, her enemies mock her as a trollop and refuse to believe she is respectable."
"The pamphlet devoted several pages to attacking her rival as a trollop."
"The insult remains familiar, but it is now chiefly encountered in historical texts and deliberately abusive speech."
The regular plural is trollops, though the word is now uncommon outside historical, literary, or openly derogatory contexts.
"The novel portrays two rival trollops competing for the merchant's attention."
Once used bluntly as a label for a prostitute, “trollop” survives chiefly as a fiercely derogatory personal insult.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of trollop
The word appeared in the early 17th century, but its precise origin is uncertain. It has often been connected with “trull,” an older English word for a prostitute or a woman of loose character, although that relationship is not securely established.
How trollop is actually used
Chiefly associated with British English and now uncommon outside deliberately offensive or historical contexts. It carries a strongly insulting and misogynistic tone and is unsuitable in neutral, formal, or polite speech.