lorette

noun

lo·​rette

ləˈret,

lȯ-

plural -s

: a French courtesan especially of the Second Empire period

a sumptuous scene where lorettes, actresses, respectable women … could satisfy their curiosity as to each other

—Arnold Bennett

Word History

Etymology

French, from Notre Dame de Lorette, section of Paris

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now