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Adulterer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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adulterer

[əˈdʌltərər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in relationships

A person who is married but has sexual relations with someone other than their spouse, often used in a negative or judgmental way.

Synonyms

cheater, infidel, philanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adulterer

Used formally or in legal contexts to describe someone who has committed adultery, specifically in a marital context.

  • The court ruled that the adulterer must pay alimony.
  • Being labeled an adulterer damaged his reputation in the community.
cheater

A more general term that can be used in various contexts, not limited to romantic relationships. It refers to someone who deceives or acts dishonestly.

  • He was a cheater in the game, always finding ways to bend the rules.
  • She found out her partner was a cheater and decided to end the relationship.
infidel

An old-fashioned or religious term that can have a negative connotation, often used to describe someone who is unfaithful in a religious sense or unfaithful to a set of beliefs.

  • He was treated as an infidel when he abandoned their faith.
  • Accusing her of being an infidel, they ostracized her from the community.
philanderer

Used to describe a man who engages in many casual sexual relationships, often with a negative connotation. Typically implies habitual promiscuity.

  • He had a reputation as a philanderer, always seen with different women.
  • His philandering ways eventually caught up with him.

Examples of usage

  • He was caught cheating on his wife and was labeled as an adulterer.
  • The adulterer faced social consequences for his actions.
Context #2 | Noun

legal context

A person who commits adultery, which is defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a person who is not their spouse.

Synonyms

adulteress, fornicator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adulterer

Refers to a man who has engaged in sexual relations outside of marriage. It often carries a moral judgment and is used in serious or formal discussions about infidelity.

  • He was branded as an adulterer after the affair became public.
  • In many societies, being labeled an adulterer has severe social consequences.
fornicator

Refers to a person who engages in sexual activity outside of marriage. It's a more general term and can describe both men and women. It carries a judgmental tone and is often used in religious or moral discussions.

  • Some conservative groups preach against fornicators and promote chastity.
  • He was seen as a fornicator by his peers for his numerous relationships.
adulteress

Refers to a woman who has engaged in sexual relations outside of marriage. Similar to 'adulterer,' it is used in serious or formal contexts and carries a negative connotation.

  • The community shunned her as an adulteress when the scandal broke.
  • Historical texts often depict the severe punishments faced by adulteresses.

Examples of usage

  • The court considered him an adulterer based on the evidence presented.
  • In some countries, adultery is punishable by law.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin 'adulterare,' which means 'to corrupt or make impure.'
  • In ancient societies, committing adultery was not only frowned upon but often punishable by law, showing its impact on family structures.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied views on adultery, with some societies allowing it under specific circumstances.
  • In literature, betrayal and adultery often serve as powerful themes, reflecting societal norms and personal struggles.

Legal Consequences

  • In some countries, adultery can affect divorce proceedings, impacting custody and property distribution.
  • Certain legal systems even consider adultery grounds for criminal charges, showcasing its serious implications.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that motivations for cheating can include unmet emotional needs, seeking excitement, or relationship dissatisfaction.
  • Studies show that men and women may have different reasons for infidelity, with men often citing physical attraction and women focusing on emotional connection.

Literature

  • Classic novels like 'Anna Karenina' and 'The Scarlet Letter' explore the repercussions of adultery, showcasing its complex emotional entanglements.
  • Poets and playwrights have frequently employed infidelity to elicit drama and conflict in their works.

Origin of 'adulterer'

The word 'adulterer' has roots in Latin, coming from the word 'adulterare' which means 'to pollute' or 'to corrupt'. In ancient times, adultery was considered a serious offense, punishable by law in many societies. The term 'adulterer' carries a strong moral and legal connotation, reflecting the historical views on infidelity and marriage.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,164 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.