A pimp is a person who controls prostitutes, especially by finding customers for them and taking some of the money that they earn. The term "pimp" can also be used to describe a person who is considered a ladies man or a despicable person). The word "pimp" first appeared in English in 1607, and its origin is unknown, but it may have stemmed from the French infinitive "pimper" meaning to dress up elegantly and from the present participle "pimpant" meaning alluring in seductive dress). In the 18th and 19th centuries, the term was commonly used to refer to informers).

Pimping is typically operated like a business, and the pimp may have a network of prostitutes working for them). Pimps can be categorized into three distinct categories: "low-profile" (primarily female), "hustlers" (predominantly male and violent), and "abused" (even male–female split, more likely to be subjected to violence than to commit it) ).

It is important to note that prostitution is illegal in many countries, and pimping is considered a criminal activity.