Mer`e*tri"cious (?), a. [L. meretricius, from meretrix, -icis, a prostitute, lit., one who earns money, i. e., by prostitution, fr. merere to earn, gain. See Merit.] 1. Of or pertaining to prostitutes; having to do with harlots; lustful; as, meretricious traffic.

2. Resembling the arts of a harlot; alluring by false show; gaudily and deceitfully ornamental; tawdry; as, meretricious dress or ornaments.

-- Mer`e*tri"cious*ly, adv. -- Mer`e*tri"cious*ness, n.

• of, or relating to prostitutes or prostitution
  
• tastelessly gaudy
  
• deceptive or specious