1. In ancient Greece, a courtesan or companion, often educated and cultured, who entertained men at social gatherings.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to a specific person; plural: hetaerae or hetaeras

Examples

• The hetaera was known for her wit and musical talent at Athenian symposia.
• Ancient Greek hetaerae occupied a complex social position, distinct from both wives and slaves.
• Aspasia, a famous hetaera, was renowned for her intellectual conversations with philosophers.
• The role of the hetaera in classical society has been extensively studied by historians.
• Unlike respectable women, a hetaera could move freely in public and participate in cultural events.