I check out the OED (Oxford English Dictionary).  It provides not only standard definitions, pronounciation, etc., but it also supports its determinations with references to historical usage that include quotations to demonstrate use.  

The NEW Shorter Oxford that I have with me at the moment lists the following:

1 A woman of slovenly habits or appearance.  [Middle English in origin]  (This definition quite obviously does not fit any of the women who generally post here.)

2 A kitchen maid; a drudge. [Middle English, rare]  (This rare usage is also plainly inapprorpriate here)

3 A sexually promiscuous woman, a hussy, a tart.  [Middle English]  (see comment below)

4 A makeshift candle, esp. one made from a piece of rag dipped in lard or fat [England, 17th century]  (see comment below)

5 A female dog [England, 19th century]

Ok, here's my take on it for women posting here:

1, 2 and 5 are not worth discussing.  The same is perhaps true for 4, but I've got something to say about it so I'll hold that one in abeyance for a moment.

The name used by slut101 and her asserted definition are apparently based on usage 3.  But, usage 3 does not distinguish in the OED from paid women who may engage in sex with a variety of men and unpaid women who may do so.  So, technically, that definition may arguably apply, but I don't think it does for two reasons.  First, it is vague and overly general and there are any number of words which are more specific and therefore more accurate and more appropriately used (escort and provider among them).  Second, the use and explanation given by Ciara is, IMO, in more common use today and understood as more accuarate - if not everywhere in the English speaking world, certainly on the TER General Discussion Board.

Finally, the word "slut" is most often both taken and intended as derogatory.  Again, most persons posting on the TER General Discussion Board would not use the word slut to refer to an escort or a provider because that derogatory intent is not accepted.  Along those lines, Ciara's joke made in response is supportive of that point: pointing out in a humorous way that women here do not accept being looked down upon by anyone.

To that end, let me conclude by adding that definition 4 is, perhaps, no longer historically inappropriate.  If you want to use the word slut for some reason, I will take that to mean that you regard these women as one would a candle - offering light and warmth and comfort.  For a better phrasing and description of what I mean by that usage, I would suggest reading the "about me" section of wannarideher's profile - it is a rather eloquent and accurate statement that helps explain the point.

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