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Why are condoms called condoms?

Published in Etymology of Condoms 2 mins read

The origin of the name "condom" is not definitively known, but it is believed to be attributed to a few main theories.

Theories Behind the Name

The etymology of the word "condom" remains somewhat debated, with several hypotheses circulating throughout history. Here are the most prominent theories:

The "Dr. Condom" Theory

  • The most popular theory: The most common belief is that the word "condom" originated from a person named Dr. Condom (or similar names like Conton or Condon), who is said to have invented or popularized an early form of the sheath.
  • This doctor is theorized to have been a physician in the court of King Charles II, but concrete evidence of this figure is lacking. While this theory is popular, its historical accuracy is questionable.

The Latin Origin Theory

  • Condus: Another hypothesis suggests the term comes from the Latin word “condus,” meaning “receptacle” or “vessel.” This explanation ties to the condom's function of containing semen.
  • This theory aligns logically with the purpose of a condom.

The Persian Connection

  • Kemdu: A third, less popular theory is that the word comes from the Persian word "kemdu," which described a long piece of intestine used for storage, including of food or drink.

Summary

Theory Description
Dr. Condom Named after a doctor believed to have invented an early version.
Latin "Condus" Derived from the Latin word for "receptacle."
Persian "Kemdu" From a Persian word referring to an animal intestine used for storage.

While the exact origin remains unknown, these are the primary ideas surrounding the etymology of the word "condom". It is clear, however, that the word has ancient roots with a number of possible linguistic and historical links.