Cuckoldry - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

marital infidelity

Cuckoldry refers to the practice or state of a man whose wife is unfaithful, particularly when he is unaware of her infidelity. In historical contexts, it has often been associated with feelings of humiliation and helplessness for the deceived husband. The term has been used in literature and popular culture to explore themes of jealousy, betrayal, and masculinity. In modern times, cuckoldry can also refer to a consensual kink where individuals derive pleasure from the knowledge of their partner's infidelity.

Synonyms

betrayal, cheating, infidelity.

Examples of usage

He felt a profound sense of cuckoldry after discovering his wife's affair.
Cuckoldry has been a theme in many Shakespearean plays.
The concept of cuckoldry is often explored in psychological discussions about relationships.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Cuckoldry appears frequently in Shakespeare's plays, often as a source of humor and commentary about jealousy.
In Geoffrey Chaucer’s 'The Canterbury Tales', cuckoldry is depicted through multiple characters, showcasing societal views on fidelity.
Modern literature and films sometimes use the trope of cuckoldry to explore themes of love, trust, and betrayal.

Psychology

The concept can impact male self-esteem, leading to feelings of inadequacy or inferiority.
Cuckoldry informs certain psychological theories about jealousy, particularly regarding male reactions to perceived infidelity.
Research indicates that understanding cuckoldry might influence contemporary relationships and expectations about fidelity.

Pop Culture

Cuckoldry has been commonly referenced in comedy shows and movies, often as a humorous plot device.
The topic is explored in various songs, highlighting themes of betrayal and heartbreak in relationships.
It has appeared in popular television dramas to build tension and conflict among characters.

Historical Views

Throughout history, cuckoldry has been viewed negatively, often marking societal judgments on male honor and reputation.
In some cultures, historic responses to cuckoldry included public humiliation or other forms of social ostracism.
In medieval times, a man’s status could be influenced by whether he was seen as a cuckold, affecting his social standing.

Origin of 'cuckoldry'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the Old French word 'cucu', which refers to the cuckoo bird, known for laying eggs in other birds' nests.
Historically, the word 'cuckold' has been used since the Middle Ages to describe a man who is deceived by his unfaithful wife.
In literature, the imagery of the cuckoo has symbolized betrayal and being fooled.

The term 'cuckold' has its origin in the Old French word 'cucu' or the Late Latin 'cuculus', which means 'cuckoo'. The cuckoo bird is known for its reproductive strategy of laying eggs in the nests of other birds, leaving the fostering parents to raise its young. This behavior metaphorically linked to the idea of a man raising children that are not biologically his own, hence the concept of cuckoldry developed. It has been present in literature since at least the Middle Ages, gaining prominence in works by authors like Chaucer and Shakespeare. Over centuries, cuckoldry has been both a source of shame and a subject of fascination, often examined in the context of power dynamics in relationships and societal norms regarding fidelity.

Cuckoldry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations