What Does Pimp Mean?

The term ‘pimp’ has become increasingly popular over the past few years, particularly within younger generations. The term is often seen as positive, with people wearing ‘pimp’ clothing and talking about ‘pimping’ up their cars. But what does the term actually mean and where did it originate from?

Origins of the Term

The term ‘pimp’ has origins in American slang and is said to have first appeared in the late 17th century. Historically, a pimp was seen as a man who profits from prostitution, by organizing for prostitutes to have clients and then collecting a fee for his services. The Oxford English Dictionary describes a pimp as ‘a person, especially a man, who solicits customers for a prostitute or a brothel, usually in return for a share of the earnings’.

Regional Variations

The term pimp has been subject to various regional variations over the centuries. In Australia in the 1800s, pimps were known as ‘sparrow hawk warriors’ and in the United Kingdom in the early 1900s, they were referred to as ‘fences’. In more recent times, the term ‘pimp’ has been adopted by mainstream culture to be used as a positive term, referring to something that is cool, stylish, or impressive.

Pimp Culture

Over the last decade, the term ‘pimp’ has become associated with a lifestyle which is glamorous and flashy. This is often seen in the music and fashion industry and there have been a range of movies which portray pimping as an exciting and lucrative way to make a living. There are also numerous television shows which idolize and glamorize the pimp subculture.

Despite its wider use in common language, it is important to remember the term ‘pimp’ still has its original meaning. While the term may be used as a compliment among members of society, it also carries a negative connotation, which is important to acknowledge.