Cupid

noun

Cu·​pid ˈkyü-pəd How to pronounce Cupid (audio)
1
: the Roman god of erotic love compare eros
2
not capitalized : a figure that represents Cupid as a naked usually winged boy often holding a bow and arrow

Did you know?

According to Roman mythology, Cupid was the son of Mercury, the messenger god, and Venus, the goddess of love. In Roman times, the winged "messenger of love" was sometimes depicted in armor, but no one is sure if that was intended as a sarcastic comment on the similarities between warfare and romance, or a reminder that love conquers all. Cupid was generally seen as a good spirit who brought happiness to all, but his matchmaking could cause mischief. Venus wasn't above using her son's power to get revenge on her rivals, and she once plotted to have the beautiful mortal Psyche fall in love with a despicable man. But the plan backfired: Cupid fell in love with Psyche, and she eventually became his immortal wife.

Examples of Cupid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Does the Lucifer star have any plans with his wife for Cupid’s special day? Brendan Le, Peoplemag, 14 Feb. 2024 There are myriad, memorable ways to spend time together, from the adrenaline thrills of indoor skydiving and spectacular hikes to sunset cruises, caviar tastings and even a chance to emulate Cupid. Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 12 Feb. 2024 The organization orchestrates a Cupid Crew initiative, powered by volunteers, which gathers Valentine's Day cards on a national scale. Maeghan Dolph, Fox News, 10 Feb. 2024 Flourless Chocolate-Pecan Cookies Even Cupid would make a special appearance for these intensely rich chocolate cookies. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2024 Instead of a mad dash to the store after work, plan ahead with these delicious confections that even Aphrodite and Cupid are sure to approve of. Marissa Wu, Southern Living, 1 Feb. 2024 The technology has been discovered, at a place called the Love Institute, for couples to determine whether Cupid’s aim is true. Michael O'Sullivan, Washington Post, 1 Nov. 2023 No need for ‘awkward conversations’ Back at the Sakai Chamber of Commerce, light music plays to sooth the mood in what might otherwise seem an unlikely setting for Cupid to draw his bow. Chris Lau, CNN, 2 Sep. 2023 The play itself centers on the story of Angel, the frontwoman of the band Angel Number Nine, and her chance encounter with Cupid, the Roman god of love. Chris Kelly, Washington Post, 6 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'Cupid.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin Cupido

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Cupid was in the 14th century

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Dictionary Entries Near Cupid

Cite this Entry

“Cupid.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Cupid. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

cupid

noun
cu·​pid
ˈkyü-pəd
: a picture or statue of Cupid the Roman god of love often as a winged naked child with a bow and arrow

More from Merriam-Webster on Cupid

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