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Adultery: meaning, definitions and examples

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adultery

 

[ əˈdʌltəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

marital infidelity

Adultery refers to the act of a married person engaging in sexual relations with someone who is not their spouse. It is often considered a violation of the marital contract and can lead to significant emotional trauma for all parties involved. In many cultures and legal systems, adultery can have serious consequences, including divorce and social stigma. The term has historically carried a heavy moral burden and is often associated with themes of betrayal and broken trust.

Synonyms

betrayal, cheating, infidelity, unfaithfulness.

Examples of usage

  • He was accused of adultery after being seen with another woman.
  • The couple's marriage ended due to her adultery.
  • Adultery is often a topic in literature and films.

Translations

Translations of the word "adultery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adultério

🇮🇳 व्यभिचार

🇩🇪 Ehebruch

🇮🇩 perzinahan

🇺🇦 перелюб

🇵🇱 cudzołóstwo

🇯🇵 不倫

🇫🇷 adultère

🇪🇸 adulterio

🇹🇷 zina

🇰🇷 간통

🇸🇦 زنا

🇨🇿 cizoložství

🇸🇰 cudzoložstvo

🇨🇳 通奸

🇸🇮 preljub

🇮🇸 hór

🇰🇿 зинақорлық

🇬🇪 უღალტობა

🇦🇿 zina

🇲🇽 adulterio

Etymology

The word 'adultery' originates from the Latin term 'adulterium,' which is derived from 'adulterare,' meaning 'to corrupt' or 'to sully.' It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century. In historical contexts, adultery was seen not just as a personal moral failing but as an offense against family and social order, often leading to severe social and legal repercussions. Various religious traditions have also addressed adultery, prescribing different penalties and forms of restitution. Over time, the perception of adultery has evolved, reflecting broader changes in societal norms and attitudes towards marriage, fidelity, and relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,749, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.