SEX WORK Synonyms: 5 Similar Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

sex work

noun

Definition of sex work

as in prostitution

the practice of engaging in sexual activities for money The city moved to decriminalize sex work.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sex work

prostitution

Noun

According to local news reports, police in Pattaya over the weekend apprehended at least 25 individuals suspected of soliciting for prostitution, an offense punishable by fines.

— Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 2 Sep. 2026
Her stepmother is better known as Ashley Dupré, the escort wrapped up in the middle of the Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal.

— Peter White, Deadline, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of prostitution

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Style

“Sex work.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sex%20work. Accessed 10 Sep. 2026.

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