Dictionary

no better than one ought to be en · ADJ

Meanings

1. (comparative-only, dated, euphemistic) Sexually promiscuous.
   • There were no whisperings, even from his opponents, that he was no better than he ought to be. Because, there was nothing wrong on which to hang a charge. As an eloquent orator, he carried with him the firm support of a good name. 1848, The American Pulpit, volume 3, page 120:
   • “H’mph!” said the lady. “Film-actors, by the look of yer. And” (with a withering glance at Harriet’s furs) “no better than you should be, I’ll be bound.” 1937, Dorothy L. Sayers, Busman's Honeymoon:
   • After dinner she went directly to Melissa. “Mellie,” she said, “do you know, I've good reason for thinking this woman you've got is no better than she ought to be. Think of that, and you sick, and Abraham exposed to temptation.” 1867, Caroline Fairfield Corbin, A Woman's Secret, page 162:
   • Everybody agreed that though nothing was known concerning Mrs. Markwood, she was no better than she ought to be. 1891, Charles Garvice, Better Than Life, page 290:

Synonyms

promiscuous