Legal Definitions - stuprum

Stuprum

Stuprum is a term used in Roman and civil law to describe disgraceful behavior related to unchastity. It refers to a man's illegal sexual intercourse with a woman, usually a virgin or widow, or with a male (pederasty).

For example, if a man has sexual intercourse with a woman who is not his wife and who is a virgin or widow, he has committed stuprum. Similarly, if a man engages in sexual activity with another man, it is also considered stuprum.

It is important to note that stuprum is different from adultery, which is committed with a married woman. Adultery is named after children conceived by another man, while stuprum is committed against a virgin or a widow.