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whore after

C1 formal inseparable transitive

To pursue something — typically forbidden pleasures, false beliefs, or material gain — in a shameless or morally compromised way.

In plain English

To desperately and shamelessly chase after something bad or forbidden.

What does "whore after" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 C1 idiomatic formal

(Literary/Biblical) To pursue false beliefs, idols, or forbidden pleasures in a morally corrupt way.

"The prophet accused the people of whoring after foreign gods and abandoning their traditions."

And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto devils, after whom they have gone a whoring.

— The Bible, Leviticus 17:7 (King James Version)
inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To act as a prostitute in pursuit of something — used metaphorically for immoral or degrading pursuit.

Actually means

To desperately and shamelessly chase after something bad or forbidden.

Usage tip

Primarily a biblical and literary expression, drawn from the Old Testament where Israel is described as 'whoring after' foreign gods. In modern usage it is almost exclusively literary or rhetorical. The term is offensive in non-literary contexts and should be used with care.

Words that pair with "whore after"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

false gods idols money power pleasure fame

How to conjugate "whore after"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
whore after
I/you/we/they
3rd person
whores after
he/she/it
Past simple
whored after
yesterday
Past participle
whored after
have + pp
-ing form
whoring after
continuous

Hear "whore after" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "whore after" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "whore after"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

chase after covet lust after pursue shamelessly sell out for

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