# cuck

CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cuck
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a rude insult aimed at a man who seems weak or lets other people control him. It started as short for a husband whose wife cheats on him, but now people mostly use it as a general put-down online.

For teachers: a man perceived as weak, ineffectual, or submissive, especially one who tolerates infidelity by a partner. Shortened from 'cuckold', now broadened into a general insult questioning masculinity or resolve.

## Examples

- He calls his rival a cuck online.
- In the game chat, one player calls another a cuck for refusing to fight back.
- The insult spread from obscure forums into mainstream politics, where cuck became shorthand for any opponent seen as weak or compromising.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.