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First and foremost, cuerno in Spanish, and corno in Italian and Portuguese means horn.
The expression “cornudo” is a term used in Spanish to describe a man whose wife or girlfriend has been unfaithful to him. The literal translation of “cornudo” is “horned one,” and it carries a strong connotation of being cheated on.
Origin and Story
The origin of the term “cornudo” is somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have roots in medieval Europe. One popular theory is that it comes from the custom of placing horns on the heads of animals, which later became a metaphor for a man being made a fool of, similar to an animal. In medieval times, a man who was publicly humiliated by his wife’s infidelity was said to have been given “horns.”
The concept of a man with horns to symbolize his wife’s infidelity can be found in various cultures and languages. It was used as a visual representation of his shame and the betrayal he experienced. The association between horns and cuckoldry appears in literature and art throughout history, suggesting that the metaphor was widely understood and accepted.
Equivalents in Other Languages
- Italian: Cornuto – This term is almost identical to the Spanish “cornudo” and carries the same meaning. Italy, like Spain, has a rich tradition of this metaphor being used in literature, theater, and everyday language.
- French: Cocu – The French equivalent of “cornudo” is “cocu.” This term also has similar connotations and is used to describe a man who has been cheated on by his wife or girlfriend.
- Portuguese: Cornudo – In Portuguese, the term remains the same as in Spanish and Italian, with the same meaning.
- German: Gehörnter – In German, the equivalent is “geköpft,” which directly translates to “horned one.” It carries the same metaphorical meaning of being a cuckold.
English Equivalent
In English, the equivalent term is “cuckold.” A cuckold is a man whose wife has been unfaithful to him. The word comes from the Old French “cucuald,” which itself is derived from “cucu,” a bird known for laying its eggs in other birds’ nests. This term also carries a strong connotation of public shame and humiliation.
Historical and Cultural Usage
The term “cornudo” has been used in various cultural contexts. In Spanish literature, the concept of the “cornudo” appears in many classic works, often used to describe characters who suffer from the betrayal of their spouses. Similarly, in Italian literature and theater, the “cornuto” is a recurring figure, especially in comedic plays where infidelity and its consequences are a central theme.
For example, in the works of Italian playwrights like Carlo Goldoni, the figure of the “cornuto” is often used to create humorous situations, highlighting the social and personal ramifications of infidelity. In Spanish literature, the “cornudo” is a staple of traditional storytelling, appearing in stories, poems, and songs that explore themes of love, betrayal, and honor.
The expression “cornudo” and its equivalents in other languages highlight a shared cultural understanding of infidelity and its social implications. Despite the differences in language and culture, the metaphor of horns representing a cheated man is a common and enduring symbol across many societies. This reflects the universal themes of love, trust, and betrayal that resonate with people everywhere.
La expresión “cornudo” se usa en español para describir a un hombre cuya esposa o novia le ha sido infiel. Su origen se remonta a la Europa medieval, donde se usaban cuernos como metáfora de la humillación pública sufrida por la infidelidad. Esta metáfora aparece en varias culturas y lenguas.
“Poner los cuernos”, and “ponerle los cuernos a alguien” means to cheat on someone / on someone’s partner.
Equivalentes en Otros Idiomas:
- Italiano: Cornuto
- Francés: Cocu
- Portugués: Cornudo
- Alemán: Gehörnter
- Inglés: Cuckold
En la literatura y el teatro español e italiano, el “cornudo” es un personaje recurrente, especialmente en obras cómicas que tratan la infidelidad. Este término refleja temas universales de amor, traición y honor, compartidos por diversas culturas.
