There are plenty of four-letter words out there that some would consider shocking, and, for some, the C-word for part of the female anatomy tops the list. So why might you wear it on a ring?
One reason is that the word actually has a rather more profound origin than you might imagine, coming from the Norse word ‘Kunta’. Some trace it back even further, to ancient Egypt, India or Ireland.
This was not a direct equivalent, for the original word, whether in Old Norse or Egyptian, essentially means ‘feminine’, which then lends itself to the most female aspect of the anatomy. However, the meaning goes further than mere vernacular words for sexual organs. This was not originally a derogatory term.
How Has The C-word Changed In Meaning?
Indeed, priestesses and goddesses could be mentioned using the term in some cultures. So if the idea of having the word displayed on modern steel rings seems unambiguously shocking, maybe it’s time to think again.
For a long time, the term was a fairly neutral word, although the first recorded use of it in England was ‘Gropecunt Lane’ in Oxford in the 14th century, which happened to be in the red light district. Perhaps it is as well that the road has long since been renamed.
It appears often in medieval literature, too, including in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Once again, you can be sure that modern readers will encounter a slightly reworded version.
Over time, the word has taken on a more derogatory meaning, and if you want a ring with the word on it, that may be exactly the point. Of course, some have tried to change this, with an attempt by feminist Germaine Greer to reclaim the word, echoing the use of the ‘N’ word by black rappers.
You may encounter a more amusing exception if you head to places like Glasgow, of course, where it is often used as a term of endearment in much the same way ‘bastard’ is in Australia.
In the end, it will be your ring and, like any other message you might display, interpretation is always in the mind of the beholder.
