Catamited

/ˈkætəmaɪtɪd/ verb

Definition

Past tense form indicating someone was victimized or forced into such a relationship (archaic/offensive).

Etymology

Past tense of the verb form 'catamite', though this usage is extremely rare and primarily historical.

Kelly Says

This word is so archaic and offensive that it barely appears in modern English, but studying it reminds us that language preserves historical practices we now recognize as harmful.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Verb form of catamite; applies the power-laden historical relationship to an action, compounding the gendered and age-based hierarchy embedded in the root.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid in modern usage. If discussing historical practices, use 'sexually abused' or describe the specific relationship structure rather than this euphemistic term.

Inclusive Alternatives

["sexually abused","exploited"]

Related Words

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