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Profane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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profane

[prəˈfeɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

inappropriate language

To speak or behave in a disrespectful or irreverent way, especially by using obscene or vulgar language.

Synonyms

blaspheme, curse, swear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
profane

Use 'profane' to describe language, actions, or behavior that shows disrespect or lack of reverence for something sacred or holy.

  • He used profane language in the church, which shocked everyone.
  • The graffiti on the temple walls was profane and offensive.
curse

Use 'curse' to describe when someone wishes harm or expresses anger towards someone using specific words or phrases.

  • She cursed loudly when she stubbed her toe.
  • The old woman cursed the young man for stealing from her.
swear

Use 'swear' to describe using offensive language, or to make a serious promise or oath.

  • He swore repeatedly during the argument.
  • She swore to tell the truth in court.
blaspheme

Use 'blaspheme' when someone speaks disrespectfully or irreverently about God or sacred things.

  • He was accused of blaspheming during the religious ceremony.
  • To blaspheme against the divine is seen as a serious offense in many cultures.

Examples of usage

  • He was fired for profaning during the meeting.
  • She was shocked by his profane language.
Context #2 | Adjective

not sacred

Not relating to religion or religious matters; secular.

Synonyms

non-religious, secular.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
profane

Can also mean ordinary, not connected with religion or sacred things, carrying a neutral connotation in this case.

  • The ceremony had both sacred and profane aspects.
secular

Best used to describe organizations, systems, or countries that operate independently of religious influence. It’s often used in formal or institutional contexts.

  • The country has a secular constitution that guarantees freedom of religion.
  • Public schools in many countries follow a secular curriculum.
non-religious

Appropriate for describing someone or something that has no connection to religion, faith or religious practices. It is neutral and factual.

  • She identifies as non-religious and does not attend any church services.
  • The company funded a research study on non-religious topics.

Examples of usage

  • The book contained both sacred and profane writings.
  • She preferred to keep her personal life separate from her profane duties.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Varieties

  • In different cultures, what is considered profane can vary widely; certain phrases may be acceptable in one language while deeply offensive in another.
  • The use of profane language is often connected to social class and context, with lower socioeconomic groups frequently identified as using it more liberally.

Literature

  • Many literary works, especially in the 20th and 21st centuries, include profane language to depict realism and raw human emotions.
  • Authors such as Mark Twain and Kurt Vonnegut have used such language in their writings to challenge societal norms.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that swearing can enhance pain tolerance and serve as a coping mechanism during stressful situations.
  • Using profane language has been shown to elicit stronger emotional responses, which can be both cathartic and socially bonding in certain contexts.

Pop Culture

  • Television shows and movies often use profanity to create humor or to portray characters as edgy and rebellious.
  • The rise of 'explicit content' ratings has affected the music industry, leading to a debate over artistic expression versus societal norms.

Origin of 'profane'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'profanus,' which means 'outside the temple,' indicating something that is not holy or sacred.
  • Originally, the term was used to describe actions or language that desecrated religious contexts.

The word 'profane' originated from the Latin word 'profanare', which means 'to desecrate'. It was first used in the 14th century to describe something that is not sacred or religious in nature. Over time, the word has evolved to also include the use of inappropriate or vulgar language.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,914, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.