Gross: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• This word comes from the Latin 'grossus', meaning 'thick' or 'coarse'.
• In the 15th century, it began to be used in English to describe something large or bulky.
• The modern meaning relating to something unpleasant started to appear in the 18th century.

Pop Culture

• The term is often used in TV and movies to describe disgusting scenes or situations, such as in horror films.
• Shows like 'Bad Girls Club' popularized the phrase 'that’s so gross' among younger audiences.
• Social media influencers frequently use it to describe trends or behaviors they find unappealing.

Psychology

• The feeling of grossness can trigger a 'disgust response', which is an evolutionarily developed reaction to protect us from harmful substances.
• Studies show that what one person finds gross, another might not, indicating personal and cultural differences in perception.
• Disgust is linked to moral judgments; people often label certain behaviors as gross to express their disapproval.

Education

• Teaching children about what is considered gross can help them understand hygiene and safety.
• Science experiments often involve gross phenomena, such as exploring moldy food to learn about bacteria.
• Discussing gross things in a classroom can engage students and make learning memorable.

Food

• Certain foods might be perceived as gross by some, like insects in culinary dishes, which are delicacies in various cultures.
• The term 'gross' is often used to describe expired or spoiled food items.
• Culinary trends like 'extreme food challenges' often play on the idea of eating things that might be considered gross.

This word ranks #1,986, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

• ...
• 1983 accompanied
• 1984 measurements
• 1985 appointment
• 1986 gross
• 1987 copper
• 1988 variables
• 1989 elsewhere
• ...