Cuckoldy

/ˈkʌkəldi/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of a cuckold; marked by infidelity or the condition of being betrayed by a partner's unfaithfulness.

Etymology

From 'cuckold' + '-y' (adjective-forming suffix). Emerged in Middle English to describe situations or states associated with marital betrayal.

Kelly Says

This is one of those deliciously archaic English words that captured an entire *genre* of medieval and Renaissance literature—tales of 'cuckoldy' scenarios were actually hugely popular entertainment in the 1300s-1600s, kind of like the drama shows today!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Informal/dialectal variant of cuckoldry or cuckold-like; same gendered emasculation frame.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid; use neutral terms for infidelity or consensual non-monogamy.

Inclusive Alternatives

["unfaithful","consensually non-monogamous"]

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.