disorderly house

noun

1. a house of prostitution; brothel.
2. a gambling place.

disorderly house

noun

1. law an establishment in which unruly behaviour habitually occurs, esp a brothel or a gaming house

Word History and Origins

Origin of disorderly house¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

"Well, I think we had better go in and take some peaches and straighten up that disorderly house," said the elder sister.

From Project Gutenberg

It is not surprising that Moll was often fined for keeping a disorderly house.

From Project Gutenberg

See what a disorderly house she kept; I will not say disreputable, for God forbid that I should take away any woman's character.

From Project Gutenberg

In this yard we went up three or four steps into a little disorderly house, where a family of eleven was crowded.

From Project Gutenberg

Bed house, hotel and disorderly house; proprietor X 245, license issued in the name of X 245-a.

From Project Gutenberg