The phrase "of easy virtue" refers to a person who is known for being promiscuous or sexually immoral. The spelling of this phrase can be explained by using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word "of" is pronounced as /ʌv/, with a short "uh" sound followed by a "v" sound. The second word "easy" is pronounced as /ˈiːzi/, with a long "ee" sound followed by a "z" sound. Lastly, the word "virtue" is pronounced as /ˈvɜːtʃuː/, with a short "ur" sound followed by a "ch" sound and a long "oo" sound at the end.
The term "of easy virtue" refers to an individual, often a woman, who is considered to be morally promiscuous or lacking in sexual restraint. It suggests that this person readily engages in casual sexual relationships or is quick to engage in sexual activities without regard for moral or societal norms.
The phrase "easy virtue" carries a judgmental connotation, implying that the individual is morally loose or morally corrupt. It is rooted in traditional gender stereotypes and societal expectations regarding sexual behavior, often shaming individuals who engage in casual sexual encounters or prioritize personal gratification over conservative moral standards.
The term can also be used to describe someone who is perceived as morally weak or lacking in principles beyond just their sexual behavior. It implies that the person in question is easily swayed by temptation or inclined to compromise their values or integrity.
It is important to recognize that the term "of easy virtue" reflects a subjective and moralistic perspective on sexuality. The usage of this phrase has decreased significantly over time due to increased cultural acceptance of different sexual orientations, the understanding that consensual sexual behavior is a personal choice, and the rejection of outdated morality-based judgments about individuals' sexual behavior.