- The term ‘ho-bag’ blends the word ‘ho,’ which refers to a prostitute, with the word ‘bag,’ which refers to a container used to store or carry something. The word ‘bag’ possibly was blended with the term ‘ho’ to emphasize that the woman, as if she were a bag, is full of prostitute-like qualities. If this is the case, then metaphor may be employed as a woman is being compared to a bag. ‘Bag,’ however, has the more obscure meaning of ‘unattractive woman.’ As this sense of ‘bag’ was likely not known among the speakers, who formed the word, it is uncertain whether this sense of ‘bag’ should be considered in the discussion of the word’s formation process.
(2) ho-bag
noun; compounding
a promiscuous or slutty woman
Etymology : The term ‘ho’ is probably a shortening of the word ‘whore,’ which comes the Old English ‘hore’ meaning ‘prostitute, harlot.’ The term ‘bag’ comes from the Old Norse term ‘baggi’ or from a similar Scandinavian source. Its use a derogatory slang for a woman has been attested since 1924.
Source : ‘I can’t believe that she was dancing with him all night. She’s is such a ho-bag.’ (conversation with a friend, September 2008)
Last modified: 4 December 2008