Definition of "pander" in English

noun

1. A person who furthers the illicit love-affairs of others; a pimp or procurer.

   • It was not only the brilliant phalanx of virtuous dowagers, generals and academicians with whom he was most intimately associated that Swann so cynically compelled to serve him as panders.

2. An offer of illicit sex with a third party.

3. An illicit or illegal offer, usually to tempt.

4. (by extension) One who ministers to the evil designs and passions of another.

verb

1. (intransitive) To tempt with, to appeal or cater to (improper motivations, etc.); to assist in gratification.

   • His latest speech panders to the worst instincts of the electorate.

2. (transitive) To offer (something or someone) in order to tempt or appeal, especially to base or improper motivations.

3. (intransitive) To offer illicit sex with a third party; to pimp.

4. (transitive, obsolete) To act as a pander for (somebody).