harem

noun ah-REM Rare

Origin: From Arabic 'haram' (forbidden/sacred place).

Usage Note

Harem entered French from Turkish harem and Arabic haram, denoting the secluded women's quarters in a traditional Muslim household or, historically, the women living there. In modern colloquial French it can be used loosely and humorously for any group of women surrounding one man, though this usage can be offensive. The H is aspirate.

Examples

"Le palais abritait un vaste harem."

Natural Translation

The palace housed a vast harem.

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