Paphian

1 of 2

noun

Pa·​phi·​an ˈpā-fē-ən 

plural Paphians

1

: a native or inhabitant of Paphos

2

often paphian : a woman who engages in sex acts and especially sexual intercourse in exchange for pay : a woman who is a sex worker

Paphian

2 of 2

adjective

1

: of or relating to Paphos or its people

2

: of or relating to illicit love : wanton

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Latin paphius, from Greek paphios, from Paphos, ancient city of Cyprus that was the center of worship of Aphrodite

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 2