Cupid: a male name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous".It derives from the Latin word "cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus".
Cupid is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Cupid
Quick facts about Cupid
Origin
Latin
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus
How to Pronounce Cupid
Cupid is pronounced /ˈkjuː.pɪd/(Latin)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cup-id
Say it like: "CUP-ID"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Cupid is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Cupid
What does the name Cupid mean?
Cupid means "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros.". The name comes from cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cupid for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cupid's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like LATIN (ROMAN MYTHOLOGY), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Cupid?
Cupid is a latin name. The name traces back to cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cupid a boy or girl name?
Cupid is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In latin tradition, Cupid has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cupid?
Cupid is pronounced "/ˈkjuː.pɪd/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cupid is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Cupid can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Cupid?
Cupid is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cupid offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cupid's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cupid holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cupid commonly used?
Cupid is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Cupid found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cupid into their naming traditions. A child named Cupid will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cupid is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Cupid?
Cupid carries associations with LATIN (ROMAN MYTHOLOGY). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “cupiō > cupīdō > cupere > cupidus” meaning “desire, longing, especially amorous desire, lust, passion, greed, long for, eager, passionate, greedy, wanton, lecherous.” In classical mythology, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and is known in Latin also as “Amor” (Love). His Ancient Greek counterpart is Eros." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Cupid originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Cupid sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Cupid often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.