Pute

Pute is a French noun that literally means "prostitute." The word is considered vulgar and pejorative when used to describe a woman, functioning as a strong insult in many contexts. In formal or respectful discourse, neutral terms such as "prostituée" or the more inclusive "travailleuse du sexe" are preferred. The term’s offensiveness and acceptability vary by region, audience, and intent.

Historically and in contemporary usage, pute appears in literature, media, and everyday speech as part of stigmatizing language surrounding sex work. It is related to other pejorative terms for sex workers and is generally avoided in polite or professional settings. In academic and policy discussions, researchers and commentators typically use non-stigmatizing terminology while acknowledging the cultural resonance of such words and the attitudes they reflect.

Linguistic notes: the term is specific to French, with cognates in other Romance languages that often carry similarly strong negative connotations. Its use is typically inappropriate in formal writing or journalism, except when analyzing language, culture, or historical contexts where the term itself is under discussion. For discussions about sex work more broadly, neutral terminology is recommended to avoid reinforcing stigma.