A concubine is a woman who is in a long-term, committed relationship with a man but is not married to him. In many cultures and historical contexts, concubines were often seen as secondary partners, with fewer rights and social status compared to a wife. They could bear children and play significant roles in family lineage, especially when a man had both a wife and one or more concubines for various reasons, including social, economic, or political benefits.
The word "concubine" comes from the Latin "concubina," which means "one who lies with (a man)." It combines "con-" (meaning "with") and "cubare" (meaning "to lie down"). The term has been used throughout history in various cultures to describe a woman living in a recognized but lesser status compared to a legally wedded wife.