The word sugar needs no explanation, but in this case it stands for something sweet in a figurative sense. Daddy is originally an affectionate English term for father. In some role plays that are not exactly family-friendly, and in the context of this article, it refers to an older, fatherly male figure.
What is a sugar daddy without money? A man with a well-stocked bank account who is called "sugar daddy" by much younger, rather naive women receives sexual favors and in return pays for the women's high standard of living.
Handbags, shoes or simply cash are the particular "sweets" these luxury-loving ladies need to get by. Some women also wish to have their rent covered. Not by themselves, of course.

What Is a Sugar Daddy Compared to Prostitution?

Women who simply take advantage of their sugar daddies as described above are in turn called "sugar babies." Many people find this form of relationship morally objectionable and equate it with prostitution. Strictly speaking, though, sugar daddies are not johns and sugar babies are not escorts. The reason the two are almost automatically lumped together is that in both cases sex and money are involved, but no feelings. But you have to ask: what is a sugar daddy when feelings develop anyway, on one side or, more rarely, on both?
Of course you can't really control your emotions, especially when it comes to love, which makes it all the more dramatic when such feelings arise in a sugar baby or perhaps even a sugar daddy. Often the unequal couple quickly goes separate ways when the human connection becomes more important to one of them than the purely material side.

What Is a Sugar Daddy Until You Have Found One?

Quite a few dating websites even specialize in the question "What is a sugar daddy?" On them, men who are obviously well aware of their wealth and luxury sign up and so meet aspiring sugar babies who are years younger. Through the media and a corresponding circle of friends, these women have a strong desire for designer clothes and expensive cosmetics. The needs the older gentlemen have are still no problem or obstacle for them. Besides websites, apps are the fastest and easiest way to find sugar babies. After a short chat, they quickly meet in person without really knowing each other well.
Women are quite often approached by sugar daddies in bars or clubs as well. A few drinks are bought right away, and soon you find yourself in the mansion, which isn't moved out of anytime soon.