noun
employer of a geisha or prostitute; master; mistress
Specifically refers to a person who financially supports and employs a geisha, prostitute, or similar entertainer, often in a traditional context.
彼女の抱え主は有名な実業家だった。
Her employer was a famous businessman.
抱え主が変わると、芸者の置屋も変
When the employer changes, the geisha's geisha house may also change.
Compound of 抱え (かかえ, 'employing, keeping') + 主 (ぬし, 'master, owner').