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hetaerism

noun he·tae·rism
variants: or hetairism \-ˌrizəm\

Definition of hetaerism

plural -s
1 : a general system of temporary or continued sexual relations outside wedlock : concubinage
2 : a state of society conceived as existing in the past and characterized by the holding of women in common

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Origin and Etymology of hetaerism

Greek hetairismos, from hetaira + -ismos -ism

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