Cupid

noun

Cu·​pid ˈkyü-pəd 

1

: the Roman god of erotic love compare eros

2

cupid : 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

Because no matter what your love story looks like right now, there’s a Valentine’s Day movie that fits the moment — and sometimes, that’s all Cupid really needs to get right on this once-a-year occasion. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2026

Dunkin is also offering the Cupid’s Choice Classic Donut, which is filled with Bavarian Cream and topped with strawberry icing and Valentine’s sprinkles. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026

Guests will be able to ask Cupid for advice, or try to get on the good side of the festival’s official matchmaker-in-residence. — Charlie Vargas, Daily News, 23 Jan. 2026

And a temporary exhibition of Caravaggio’s Victorious Cupid, on loan from a German museum and never seen in the UK before is on show until 12 April 2026. — Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin Cupido

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing Cupid

• Cupid's bow
• play Cupid

Rhymes for Cupid

• stupid

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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