Meaning of the word pander in English

What does pander mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

pander

US /ˈpæn.dər/
UK /ˈpæn.dər/

Verb

to gratify or indulge (an immoral or distasteful desire, need, or habit or a person with such a desire, etc.)

Example:
The politician was accused of trying to pander to the public's baser instincts.
Some critics argue that the film panders to commercial tastes rather than artistic merit.

Noun

a person who furnishes clients with prostitutes; a pimp

Example:
The novel depicted the dark underworld of a city, where a notorious pander controlled a network of illicit activities.
Historically, the term 'pander' was often used to describe someone who acted as a go-between in illicit romantic affairs.