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Adulterous: meaning, definitions and examples

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adulterous

 

[əˈdʌl.tə.rəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

behavioral trait

Adulterous refers to engaging in or relating to sexual intercourse with someone who is not one's spouse. It typically implies infidelity and betrayal in a marriage or committed relationship.

Synonyms

disloyal, infidel, unfaithful.

Examples of usage

  • Her adulterous actions led to the end of their marriage.
  • He had an adulterous affair with a coworker.
  • The novel explores the consequences of adulterous relationships.
  • Their adulterous relationship was a well-kept secret.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'adulterare', meaning 'to corrupt or spoil'. It reflects how trust is damaged in a relationship.
  • Throughout history, societies have had varied views on fidelity, often tied to cultural norms and laws.
  • In ancient Rome, adultery was seen as a severe crime and could lead to harsh punishments for the offenders.

Cultural Representations

  • Adultery is a prominent theme in literature, depicted in works like 'Anna Karenina' by Leo Tolstoy, showcasing the complexities of love.
  • Films often explore the topic of infidelity, such as 'The English Patient', which portrays the emotional turmoil of romantic betrayals.
  • In art, many pieces capture the dramatic moments of betrayal and secrecy, often evoking strong emotions from viewers.

Psychological Insights

  • Studies show that motivations behind unfaithfulness can include lack of emotional connection or desire for novelty.
  • Research indicates that individuals may engage in affairs as a way to cope with personal issues, like low self-esteem.
  • People who cheat might rationalize their behavior, often believing that their actions don't hurt their partner due to lack of knowledge.

Religious Views

  • Many major religions condemn adultery, viewing it as a violation of moral and ethical boundaries.
  • In Christianity, it is often addressed in the Ten Commandments, where being unfaithful is explicitly forbidden.
  • Islam also has strict teachings regarding fidelity, promoting strong marital bonds and discouraging extramarital relationships.

Legal Perspectives

  • In some cultures, adultery can be grounds for divorce and may affect legal matters like custody and property division.
  • Certain countries have historically implemented laws punishing adulterous behavior, though these are less common today.
  • The legality of adultery varies significantly across jurisdictions, with some seeing it as a personal issue rather than a legal one.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,785, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.