Cuca

/ˈkuːkə/ noun

Definition

A legendary or mythical creature, particularly in Iberian folklore, often used to scare children into obedience.

Etymology

From Spanish/Portuguese origin, possibly from Latin 'coccyx' or related to 'cuco' (cuckoo), used in folklore as a boogeyman figure.

Kelly Says

The cuca is the Spanish and Portuguese version of the boogeyman—parents told children this monster would eat them if they misbehaved, a frightening folklore creature that served as a behavioral tool.

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