Meaning of the Word
Cupid is the Roman god of love, often depicted as a mischievous winged child or young adult carrying a bow and arrows, which he uses to make people fall in love.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The Roman god of love, often associated with desire and attraction.
- A figure in classical mythology, typically portrayed as a playful or mischievous child with wings, symbolizing love and affection.
- A symbol of romantic love, often represented by an image of a small, winged boy with a bow and arrow.
History and Origin
Cupid’s origins trace back to ancient Roman mythology. He is the son of Venus, the goddess of love, and Mars, the god of war. Cupid’s Greek counterpart is Eros, who also represents love and desire. Over time, Cupid became associated with the idea of love through his ability to use his arrows to make individuals fall in love or feel attraction. The image of Cupid with his bow and arrows became a popular symbol of romantic love, especially during the Renaissance and in modern times.
Detailed Explanation
In mythology, Cupid is known for his ability to shoot arrows that cause love, desire, or even infatuation. His arrows are said to have the power to make people fall deeply in love with each other, sometimes with humorous or chaotic results. He is usually depicted as a young child or adolescent, winged and mischievous, often targeting gods and mortals alike. In contemporary culture, Cupid remains a strong symbol of romantic love, especially in connection with Valentine’s Day. Cupid’s image, often shown with a bow and arrow, is widely recognized as a representation of affection and passion in relationships.
Example Sentences
- The story of Cupid and Psyche is one of the most famous tales of love in Greek mythology.
- On Valentine’s Day, many people send cards with images of Cupid and hearts.
- She believed that Cupid’s arrow had struck her when she first met her partner.
- The painting depicted Cupid playfully aiming his bow at a couple in the garden.
- Cupid’s arrows are often said to cause not just love, but also mischief and confusion.
- In ancient Rome, Cupid was celebrated as the bringer of love, often invoked in marriage rituals.
- The gift of roses on Valentine’s Day is often associated with the influence of Cupid.
- He joked that Cupid had shot him with an arrow, explaining his sudden infatuation.
- The statue of Cupid in the park was a popular spot for couples to take romantic photos.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Eros: The Greek counterpart to Cupid, also the god of love and desire.
- Cherub: A winged, often childlike figure, sometimes associated with Cupid in the context of love.
- Love god: A general term for deities like Cupid who represent love and attraction in various mythologies.
- Amor: The Latin word for love, often used as a poetic reference to Cupid in classical texts.
- Matchmaker: A person who brings people together romantically, similar to Cupid’s role in mythology.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Valentine: A person to whom a love message is sent, commonly associated with Cupid due to Valentine’s Day.
- Affection: A feeling of love or fondness, often symbolized by Cupid in popular culture.
- Desire: A strong feeling of wanting something, often linked to the influence of Cupid’s arrows.
- Romance: A narrative or theme focused on love, frequently associated with Cupid’s symbolism.
- Heart: A symbol of love, often seen alongside Cupid in illustrations and celebrations.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Love: The emotion or feeling Cupid is often associated with, especially in mythological and cultural contexts.
- Amorous: Showing or expressing love, which can be linked to Cupid’s role in inspiring romantic emotions.
- Passion: Intense love or desire, frequently invoked in stories involving Cupid.
- Infatuation: A strong but often short-lived attraction, which can be seen as one of Cupid’s influences.
- Romantic: Pertaining to love and affection, a central theme in stories involving Cupid.
Antonyms
- Indifference: Lack of interest or emotion, the opposite of the love that Cupid inspires.
- Hatred: Strong negative feelings, which are in direct contrast to love and affection.
- Apathy: A lack of feeling or emotion, which counters the passionate feelings Cupid evokes.
- Disinterest: Lack of concern or attraction, the opposite of the attraction created by Cupid’s arrows.
- Repulsion: A strong feeling of dislike or avoidance, which contradicts Cupid’s role in fostering love.