Lewd Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lewd

[luːd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

inappropriate behavior

Lewd is used to describe behavior that is sexually suggestive or offensive in a vulgar way. It implies a lack of respect or decency.

Synonyms

crude, indecent, obscene, vulgar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lewd	This word is often used to describe behavior or speech that is sexually inappropriate or offensive. It implies a level of moral indecency. His lewd comments made everyone uncomfortable. She reported the lewd behavior to HR.
indecent	This word describes actions or speech that violate social norms of decency and morality. It is often used in a more formal or serious context. She was shocked by his indecent proposal. Indecent exposure is a punishable offense.
obscene	Obscene is typically used to describe content or behavior that is offensive or disgusting, often in a sexual manner. It carries a strong connotation of moral wrongdoing. The movie was banned for its obscene content. He received an obscene phone call late at night.
vulgar	This word is used to describe something that is common, unrefined, or crude in manner or speech. It often has a social class undertone, implying a lack of sophistication. His vulgar language was not suitable for the formal event. The comedian's act was filled with vulgar humor.
crude	Crude is often used to describe something that is rough, unrefined, or lacking in sophistication. It can also refer to comments or behaviors that are rudimentary and vulgar. His crude jokes put a damper on the party. The design was still in its crude stages.

Examples of usage

She was shocked by his lewd comments.
The comedian's lewd jokes offended many people.
He was fired for making lewd gestures at work.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

crude language

Lewd can also refer to language that is crude, offensive, or sexually explicit. It is often used to describe explicit content in media.

Synonyms

crude, indecent, obscene, vulgar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lewd	Same as the first entry. Refer to the first definition and examples.
obscene	Describes something that is offensive or disgusting by societal standards, particularly in a sexual context. Obscene graffiti was painted on the school walls. The book was banned due to its obscene content.
vulgar	Refers to language, behavior, or appearances that are considered lacking in sophistication or good taste, often in a way that is crude or obscene. He made a vulgar gesture at the driver who cut him off. Her use of vulgar language shocked her parents.
indecent	Describes behavior or language that is not in line with accepted social or moral standards, often relating to sexual conduct. Wearing such indecent clothing in a public place will not be tolerated. He was fined for committing indecent acts in a public park.
crude	Refers to something that is not carefully or expertly made, or a way of speaking that is coarse or unrefined. His rude and crude humor was not appreciated in the formal meeting. The sculpture was beautiful despite its crude construction.

Examples of usage

The movie was criticized for its lewd language.
She was uncomfortable with the lewd lyrics in the song.
His lewd remarks made everyone uncomfortable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In the early 21st century, various TV shows and movies began using the term to highlight characters that displayed openly sexual behaviors humorously or shockingly.
Certain music genres, especially hip-hop and pop, have popularized the usage of 'lewd' to describe provocative lyrics and themes.

Law

In many legal systems, acts deemed 'lewd' can lead to charges of public indecency or other offenses, demonstrating the word's serious implications.
Court cases often reference the term when assessing the impact of adult materials on community standards.

Psychology

Research suggests that exposure to lewd content can alter perceptions of sexual norms, leading to desensitization toward explicit material.
Some psychologists argue that what is considered 'lewd' varies greatly across cultures, influenced by social values and norms.

Literature

Classic literature often uses lewd characters to explore themes of morality, desire, and societal norms, such as in works by Shakespeare and Chaucer.
Modern novels and plays sometimes feature lewd humor to critique or reflect contemporary society's approach to sexuality.

Origin of 'lewd'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Old English 'lewd,' meaning 'unlearned' or 'ignorant,' often used to describe someone not trained in religious matters.
Over time, 'lewd' evolved to take on a sexual meaning, reflecting society's changing views on morality.
There’s a connection to the Latin word 'levis,' which means 'light' or 'smooth,' suggesting a change in moral weight.

The word 'lewd' has its origins in the Old English word 'lǣwede' which meant 'unlearned' or 'ignorant'. Over time, the meaning shifted towards being associated with inappropriate or offensive behavior. The term has been used in English literature for centuries to describe behavior or language that is sexually suggestive or indecent.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,851, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20848 colliding
20849 aesthetically
20850 embarkation
20851 lewd
20852 contaminate
20853 conjunctivitis
20854 defrauded
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