noun
- Plural of hetaira; in ancient Greece, a woman companion or courtesan, often educated and cultured, who entertained men at social gatherings.
Usage: historical; plural form; ancient Greek context
Examples
- The hetairai of ancient Athens were known for their wit and intellectual conversation.
- Unlike wives, hetairai could participate openly in symposia and cultural events.
- Historical texts describe the hetairai as educated women who played important social roles.
- The status of hetairai in Greek society was complex and varied by region and time period.