View synonyms for philander

philander

[ fi-lan-der ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used without object)

(especially of a man) to have many casual sexual encounters or affairs, especially when married or in a committed relationship.
Synonyms: womanize, dally, trifle

philander

/ fɪˈlændə /

verb

introften foll bywith (of a man) to flirt with women

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Derived Forms

phiˈlandering, nounadjective
phiˈlanderer, noun

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Other Words From

phi·lan·der·er noun

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Word History and Origins

Origin of philander¹

First recorded in 1675–85; from Greek phílandros “one who loves” (of a woman, loving her husband); philo-, andro-; later used in fiction as a proper name for a lover, and apparently mistaken as “a man who loves”

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Word History and Origins

Origin of philander¹

C17: from Greek philandros fond of men, from philos loving + anēr man; used as a name for a lover in literary works

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Example Sentences

"I—ah—thought it would not be—ah—quite appropriate," lisped William Philander.

From Project Gutenberg

If she had no disposition to philander what was his warrant for supposing she could be corrupted into respectability?

From Project Gutenberg

John looks at Philander and the latter nods, for it all seems clear and above board.

From Project Gutenberg

His assurance carries the day; the man backs down and allows Philander a passage.

From Project Gutenberg

You noticed how she stared at you and asked your name; why, it didn't matter if a dozen Philander Sharpe were near by.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

womanize

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Philae philanderer

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