noun
- a temple slave or sacred prostitute in ancient Greece and other ancient civilizations
Usage: historical; archaic
Examples
- The hierodules served in the temple of Aphrodite in ancient Corinth.
- Archaeological evidence suggests hierodules played important roles in religious ceremonies.
- The practice of employing hierodules was common in several ancient Mediterranean cultures.
- Historians debate the exact duties and social status of hierodules in ancient society.
- The temple’s hierodules were considered sacred servants of the goddess.