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Cuckolded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cuckolded

[ˈkʌk.əʊldɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

relationship betrayal

To be cuckolded means to have one's spouse or partner engage in infidelity, particularly with another man. This term traditionally refers to a man whose wife has been unfaithful, often leading to feelings of humiliation and betrayal. The word has roots in the cuckoo bird, known for laying its eggs in the nests of other birds, metaphorically reflecting a similar situation in human relationships.

Synonyms

betrayed, deceived, wronged.

Examples of usage

  • He discovered he was cuckolded after seeing messages on her phone.
  • The backstory of the play revolves around a man who feels cuckolded by his close friend.
  • Many ancient texts discuss the themes of being cuckolded.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare frequently used the theme of cuckoldry, as seen in plays like 'Othello,' where jealousy and betrayal unfold.
  • In Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', the character of Janekin openly mocks the cuckolded husbands in his tales.

Psychology

  • Feelings associated with cuckoldry can lead to emotional pain, feelings of inadequacy, and a significant blow to self-esteem.
  • Studies suggest that men may feel more threatened by sexual infidelity due to evolutionary instincts related to paternity.

Pop Culture

  • Cuckolded characters often appear in sitcoms and films, where comedic scenarios arise due to misunderstandings about fidelity.
  • Songs across various genres often highlight themes of betrayal and infidelity, referencing the emotions tied to being cuckolded.

Social Constructs

  • Cuckoldry has historically been used to portray male vulnerability in societies that prioritize masculinity, highlighting gender dynamics.
  • Modern interpretations of cuckoldry have expanded to explore consensual non-monogamous relationships, challenging traditional views on fidelity.

Origin of 'cuckolded'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Old French word 'cucul', derived from the cuckoo bird known for laying eggs in other birds' nests, symbolizing deception.
  • The word has been associated with the idea of a husband being deceived about his wife's fidelity since the Middle Ages.

The term 'cuckold' has origins in the 12th century from the Old French word 'cucul', which is derived from the Latin 'cuculus', meaning 'cuckoo'. The cuckoo bird is associated with laying its eggs in other birds' nests, which has drawn a semblance to a spouse being unfaithful. The usage of 'cuckold' became popularized in medieval literature and was often used to symbolize the shame and disgrace that a man might endure from his partner's betrayal. Over time, 'cuckolded' evolved as a verb form, highlighting the act of being subjected to such betrayal. The concept has been explored in various forms of art, including Shakespearean plays, where themes of jealousy and dishonor are prevalent.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,097, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.