a woman who engages in sexual intercourse for money
"The neighborhood watch group reported that they had seen what appeared to be a prostitute soliciting clients near the closed bookstore last night."
Any person (especially a woman) who has sexual intercourse or engages in other sexual activity for payment, especially as a means of livelihood.
"The undercover officer posed as a client to gather evidence against the suspected prostitute running the ring."
sell one's body; exchange sex for money
"After losing his job, he was forced to become a prostitute in order to support his young daughter."
To offer (oneself or someone else) for sexual activity in exchange for money.
"The undercover officer observed that every time a customer entered the basement, the woman would immediately begin to prostitute herself for cash."
Debased, corrupt; seeking personal gain by dishonourable means.
"The politician was accused of prostituting his principles to win back the support of his wealthy donors."
The word comes from the Latin prōstitūtus, which originally meant "set up for" or "placed before." It is formed by combining prō ("for") and statuō ("to set up").