Pornographic: meaning, definitions and examples

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pornographic

 

[ˌpɔːrnəˈɡræfɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

inappropriate content

Relating to or characterized by pornographic material; obscene.

Synonyms

erotic, indecent, obscene.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pornographic

This word is used to describe content that is sexually explicit and intended to cause sexual arousal. It typically refers to materials like videos, images, or texts that are meant for adult viewers and are often restricted or banned in many places.

  • The movie was rated 'X' because it contained pornographic scenes
obscene

This term is used for something that is offensive to morality or decency, often in a way that involves sexual content. Materials or actions described as obscene are generally considered socially unacceptable and are often subject to legal restrictions.

  • The book was banned in several countries for its obscene content
indecent

This word describes behavior, speech, or clothing that is considered inappropriate or offensive, often because it involves revealing too much skin or talking about private matters in a way that is not socially acceptable.

  • She received a fine for wearing indecent clothing in public
erotic

This term is used for content that is related to sexual love and arousal but often has an artistic or literary quality. It may include stories, poetry, or art that explores sexual themes in a sophisticated or stylized manner.

  • The novel is known for its erotic passages that describe the intensity of the lovers' relationship

Examples of usage

  • It is illegal to distribute pornographic material to minors.
  • The movie was banned due to its pornographic content.
Context #2 | Adjective

offensive content

Intended to stimulate sexual excitement; sexually explicit.

Synonyms

explicit, raunchy, vulgar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pornographic

This term is used to describe content that is specifically meant to arouse sexual feelings and is often associated with adult entertainment industries. It has a strong negative connotation and is generally inappropriate for most public and professional settings.

  • The magazine contained pornographic images that were not suitable for children
  • The website was flagged for hosting pornographic content
explicit

This word is used to describe material that is very clear and detailed, particularly in depicting sexual or violent content. It can be used in various contexts such as movies, music lyrics, or literature, and often carries a warning label.

  • The song's lyrics were too explicit to be played on the radio
  • The documentary contained explicit scenes of violence
raunchy

This term describes content that is sexually suggestive, indecent, or obscene. It is often used in a somewhat humorous or casual context, but it still carries a mildly negative connotation.

  • The comedian's raunchy jokes were not appreciated by everyone in the audience
  • The movie had some raunchy scenes that were borderline inappropriate
vulgar

Vulgar is used to describe something that is lacking in taste, crude, or coarse, especially in a way that is offensive or socially unacceptable. It can apply to language, behavior, or content.

  • His vulgar language shocked everyone at the formal dinner
  • The book was criticized for its vulgar depictions of sensitive topics

Examples of usage

  • The magazine featured pornographic images that shocked many readers.
  • The website was known for its pornographic videos.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'pornography' comes from the Greek words 'porne', meaning 'prostitute', and 'graphia', meaning 'writing'.
  • The word was first used in the early 19th century to describe literature that was sexually explicit.

History

  • Ancient artifacts, like pottery from Greece and Rome, often depicted erotic scenes, showing that adult entertainment has existed for millennia.
  • During the Victorian era, the demand for pornography increased, leading to the creation of underground literature and art.

Psychology

  • Research shows that exposure to sexual content can impact attitudes towards sex and relationships, influencing behaviors and expectations.
  • Understanding one's response to pornographic material can be central to discussions about healthy sexuality and personal values.

Technology

  • The internet has drastically changed the landscape of adult content, making it more accessible than ever, with varied themes and platforms.
  • Digital copyright issues also arise frequently in the pornography industry, as unauthorized sharing is a significant problem.

Pop Culture

  • Many prominent films and television shows include themes or references to adult content, often sparking public discussions about morality and censorship.
  • The adult industry has influenced mainstream entertainment, with artists and celebrities sometimes crossing over between both worlds.

Translations

Translations of the word "pornographic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pornográfico

🇮🇳 अश्लील

🇩🇪 pornografisch

🇮🇩 pornografi

🇺🇦 порнографічний

🇵🇱 pornograficzny

🇯🇵 ポルノグラフィック (ポルノ的な)

🇫🇷 pornographique

🇪🇸 pornográfico

🇹🇷 pornografik

🇰🇷 포르노그래픽

🇸🇦 إباحي

🇨🇿 pornografický

🇸🇰 pornografický

🇨🇳 色情的

🇸🇮 pornografski

🇮🇸 klámfenginn

🇰🇿 порнографиялық

🇬🇪 პორნოგრაფიული

🇦🇿 pornoqrafik

🇲🇽 pornográfico

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,172, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.