escort
/ˈes.kɔːt/ (UK) · /ˈɛs.kɔrt/ (US)
noun [C] · verb [T] · plural escorts
Noun
- A professional companion engaged (typically for a fee) to accompany a client at social, cultural, business, or travel engagements. The role centers on conversation, etiquette, presentation, and discretion, with boundaries and expectations agreed in advance.
Compare: geisha; a traditional Japanese entertainer trained in the arts (music, dance, conversation) whose work emphasises cultural refinement and hospitality rather than intimacy. - A person or group that accompanies another for protection, guidance, or courtesy; a guard or convoy.
Verb
escort (escorts, escorting, escorted):
To accompany someone as a guide, host, or protector.
e.g., I escorted the guest to our table.
Usage notes
Sense 1 highlights a social companion role; it is not inherently sexual. Laws, norms, and terminology vary by jurisdiction; professionals and clients should observe local regulations and clear consent.
While both escort (sense 1) and geisha emphasize poise, conversation, and hosting, geisha are part of a distinct cultural tradition with formal training and codified arts; the terms are not interchangeable.
Synonyms (sense 1)
companion, social companion, host/hostess, chaperone (context-dependent)
Etymology
From French escorte, via Italian scorta “guard, convoy”; ultimately related to the idea of accompanying or watching over.
