moll
UK[mɒl]US[mɑːl]
n
A gangster's female companion or girlfriend.
n
A prostitute.
Etymology
The word "moll" has a colorful history rooted in English criminal slang of the 17th century. It originated as a familiar, generic term for a woman, derived from the common female name "Moll," a pet form of "Mary." Within the underworld lexicon, it became specifically attached to the female companions of thieves and gangsters, reflecting their association with a life of crime. Over time, its meaning narrowed further, often carrying the connotation of a prostitute, solidifying its place in the vocabulary of crime and the demimonde.
Analysis
The word "moll" is a simplex loanword, adopted as a whole from English slang. It is a clipping and alteration of the female given name "Mary," which itself originates from the Hebrew name "Miriam."
Examples
The notorious gangster was always seen with his moll at the speakeasy.
In classic noir films, the private detective often gets information from a gangster's moll.
She was more than just a moll; she was a trusted partner in his criminal schemes.