red - light district Definition, Meaning & SynonymsAn area of a city where prostitution and other vice activities are concentrated. A red- light district or pleasure district is a part of an urban area where a concentration of prostitution and sex-oriented businesses, such as sex shops, strip clubs, and adult theaters, are found. In the 19th century, the British colonial government began to regulate red light areas in India. They introduced a number of laws that aimed to control prostitution, red light area meaning including the Contagious Diseases Act of 1868. This act allowed the police to forcibly examine women suspected of being prostitutes for venereal diseases. What Is a Red Light District in Japan? The Meaning Behind “ Red Light District ” A “ red light district ” refers to a specific urban area where adult entertainment and sexual services are widely available and legally tolerated or unofficially permitted. The term originates from the red lanterns historically used in many countries, including parts of Europe, to signal the presence of a brothel. In Japan, red light districts can vary significantly in atmosphere and style but generally ...
