cupids
|cu-pids|
/ˈkjuːpɪdz/
(cupid)
personified romantic desire; love's archer
Etymology
'cupids' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'Cupīdō', where 'cupīdere'/'cupere' meant 'to desire'.
'cupids' changed from Latin 'Cupīdō' into Old French 'Cupidon' and then entered Middle English as 'cupid', eventually becoming the modern English plural 'cupids'.
Initially, it meant 'desire' or referred to the Roman god 'Cupīdō'; over time it evolved to refer to 'the winged childlike figures that symbolize romantic love' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'Cupid', the Roman god of desire and love.
The museum displayed several cupids depicted in Roman sculptures.
Synonyms
Noun 2
small winged childlike figures (cherubs or putti) used as symbols of romantic love or desire.
She decorated the cake with tiny sugar cupids and roses.
Synonyms
Noun 3
informal: people who act as matchmakers or try to bring lovers together.
At the reunion, a couple of mutual friends played cupids and introduced them.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/09/02 17:41