turn a trick

1. Engage in sex for pay, as in A young prostitute may turn a dozen tricks in a few hours. This idiom uses trick in the sense of “a sexual act.” [Slang; mid-1900s]

Example Sentences

But “your Honor,” she recalled telling the judge in her case, “I’ve never turned a trick in my life.”

From Washington Post

“Your honor,” she told the judge, “I’ve never turned a trick in my life.”

From Seattle Times

In one of Lopez’s signature pivots, the arch banter transitions to something darkly moving: what Leo wants is not to turn a trick but to take a shower and do laundry.

From The New Yorker

“No holidays, hell. Have you forgot it’s Lent? They ain’t turning a trick at Jenny’s.”

From Literature

It takes a huge heart and person to turn a trick.

From MSNBC