BUTTAFUOCO Meaning and
Definition
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Buttafuoco is an Italian surname with literal translation meaning "fire thrower" or "fire starter". However, it is primarily recognized as a reference to a well-known case in American pop culture. The initial association of the term "Buttafuoco" in popular culture stems from the infamous story of Amy Fisher and Joey Buttafuoco.
In 1992, Amy Fisher, a young woman, engaged in a sexual relationship with Joey Buttafuoco, a married auto body shop owner from New York. The scandal gained significant media attention when Amy Fisher attempted to murder Joey Buttafuoco's wife, Mary Jo Buttafuoco. This incident created a media frenzy and led to a sensationalized trial that captivated the nation.
Due to the extensive media coverage, the term "Buttafuoco" became synonymous with a scandalous affair or a sensational crime involving love triangles. It is often used metaphorically to describe similar situations in which one party engages in illicit or scandalous activities with another, leading to dire consequences.
Today, the term "Buttafuoco" is often referenced in popular culture, literature, and media as a metaphor for passionate but destructive relationships or criminal acts driven by passion and desire. It carries an implication of recklessness, scandal, and emotional volatility.
Etymology of BUTTAFUOCO
The word buttafuoco is derived from Italian. It is a compound word composed of butta meaning throw or throw away and fuoco meaning fire. When combined, buttafuoco can be translated as throw fire or fire thrower.
