A concubine is a woman who has a recognized relationship with a man but is not legally married to him. In many cultures, concubines were often kept for various reasons, including providing companionship, bearing children, or enhancing social status. The children of concubines may or may not have the same rights as those born to a legal wife. Historically, concubinage was common in societies such as Ancient China, Islamic cultures, and Ancient Rome. The status and rights of concubines varied widely depending on the culture and time period, with some enjoying significant privileges while others faced social stigma.