Definition of Cupid

The ancient Roman god of love was known as Amor, and his Greek counterpart was named Eros. However, Cupid, the Roman divine being, portrayed as a cherub or winged boy, brandishing a bow and arrow, was not identified as the Roman counterpart of Eros. In fact, Cupid's name has an intriguing origin. During the medieval period, the Latin poet, Ovid, explained how the name Cupid had been improvised since the Romans had confused their son of Venus (the Roman goddess of love) with a Cupido, an entirely distinct figure who represented love in the grammar books they studied. According to the myth, Cupid's purpose was to convey desire and affection to mortals, helping them fall in love. As worship of the pagan gods faded, Cupid evolved into an enduring figure of love and desire in Western culture, and his name remained a part of the English language. Today, "Cupid" is a popular name given to children, and it has also been used as a symbol of Valentine's Day, representing love, affection, and beauty. In popular culture, Cupid has been featured in various forms of media, from literature and theater to contemporary art and film.