In case you have not received a response, you might make a note that Johnson
(1755, 1802) does not list either variation of the term "demi-monde, though
other words identifying a prostitute do appear.  Still though, Walker in
1823 - but 20+ years later - defines the word "courtezan" as "a woman of the
town; a prostitute." Note the spelling.

Neither Johnson nor Walker list "demimonde" or "demi-monde", nor does Dymock
in 1880.  I suspect the word is French in origin, however I have no French
dictionary. 

If you gain an answer to your question, I would much enjoy knowing the
meaning.  Thanks

Paul

-----Original Message-----
From: Research and writing about Virginia genealogy and family history. Does
anyone know of another contemporary meaning of this word other than
"courtesan" or "mistress"?

I've found three women in the 1900 census in Campbell County whose
occupation is clearly "Demimonde" or "Demi Monde."  The three women were all
single, white, and ranging in age from 25 to 32.  Two lived alone; one lived
with her father.  I wonder if the census taker was really trying to connote
an occupation more "respectable" than "prostitute," or if he was just being
polite.

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