козёл (kozyol)
What does козёл (kozyol) mean? козёл (kozyol) is a Russian moderate that translates to “bastard / prick / asshole” in English.
Literal Translation
male goat
Meaning & Usage
01
"bastard / prick / asshole"
Calling someone a male goat is one of the most common Russian insults, and it hits harder than you'd expect from an animal comparison. A козёл is a despicable, untrustworthy man — someone who betrayed you, cheated on someone, or acted selfishly. The goat metaphor implies stubbornness, stupidity, and an unpleasant smell.
Examples in the Wild
A woman about her cheating partner: 'Какой козёл!' (What a bastard!). NEVER use in Russian prison contexts.