Prostitution describes sexual intercourse in exchange for remuneration. The legal status of prostitution varies in different countries, from punishable by death to complete legality. A woman who is supported by only one man she has sexual intercourse with but does not live with is a mistress, and is not normally considered a prostitute. Male prostitutes offering services to female customers are known as "gigolos" or "escorts".
The term is used loosely to indicate someone who engages in sexual acts that are disapproved of, such as sexual promiscuity or sex outside of marriage. Cultural usage varies widely, and the use of the term as a pejorative indicates acts that are not formally considered prostitution in a cultural context.