Paramour - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A paramour is a secret lover, often involved in an illicit or extramarital affair. The term implies a romantic relationship kept private due to its controversial nature.
Definition:
A lover, especially in a secret or illicit relationship.
Synonyms:
lover, mistress, beau, sweetheart
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
spouse, enemy
Common Collocations:
secret paramour, forbidden paramour, royal paramour
Derivatives:
paramours (plural), paramourish (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "paramour" to describe a romantic partner in a clandestine or socially disapproved relationship.
Common Phrases:
forbidden paramour, secret paramour, king's paramour
Etymology:
From Old French *par amour*, meaning "by love," originally an adverbial phrase.
Examples:
- 1. She discovered her husband had a secret paramour.
- 2. The nobleman’s paramour was the subject of scandalous rumors.
- 3. He wrote passionate letters to his paramour every week.
- 4. The queen’s former paramour was exiled from the court.