Profaner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤬

Add to dictionary

profaner

[prəˈfeɪnər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

someone who uses offensive language or behavior

A profaner is someone who consistently uses swear words or engages in disrespectful behavior towards others.

Synonyms

blasphemer, curser, swearer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profaner	Although spelled the same as 'profaner,' when used in different contexts, it can simply indicate someone who uses profane language rather than showing irreverence to sacred things. As a profaner, he often offended others with his inappropriate jokes. The group avoided him because he was a notorious profaner.
blasphemer	Best used when referring to someone who speaks sacrilegiously about God or sacred things. It is strongly negative and often associated with religious contexts. The preacher condemned him as a blasphemer for his outspoken criticisms of the church. During the medieval period, blasphemers were often severely punished.
curser	Useful to describe someone who frequently uses curses or foul language. This term can be applied in informal contexts but still has a negative connotation. He was known as a curser, always muttering profanities under his breath. In moments of anger, she became a relentless curser.
swearer	A casual term for someone who uses swear words frequently. It is often used in everyday or light-hearted situations, but it still has a somewhat negative impression. He was a habitual swearer, even in front of children. I'm trying to cut down on being a swearer; it sets a bad example.

Examples of usage

He was known as a profaner for his constant use of vulgar language.
The profaner was asked to leave the restaurant due to his disruptive behavior.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to treat something sacred with disrespect

To profane is to show disrespect towards something that is considered holy or sacred.

Synonyms

defile, desecrate, violate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profaner	Used to describe a person who treats something sacred with disrespect or irreverence, often in religious contexts. This term has a negative connotation. The profaner was condemned by the community for his disrespectful acts
desecrate	Commonly used in religious or sacred contexts to describe the act of disrespecting or violating something considered holy. This term is strongly negative and often used in serious situations. Vandals desecrated the ancient church, causing outrage among the locals
defile	Used when referring to making something dirty or impure, both in a literal and figurative sense. It usually carries a strong negative connotation. They defiled the once pristine river by dumping waste into it
violate	Used in both physical and abstract contexts to describe breaking rules, laws, or disrespecting boundaries. It carries a negative connotation. They violated the agreement by disclosing confidential information

Examples of usage

The vandals profaned the church by spray painting graffiti on its walls.
It is important not to profane the memory of those who have passed away.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Context

Throughout history, many cultures viewed swearing as taboo, with those who profane often facing social penalties or ostracism.
In literature, characters who exhibit profanity or disrespect often serve as villains, highlighting their moral failings.

Literature

Shakespeare’s plays contain numerous examples of profanity, often used to express intense emotions and to characterize the speaker.
In modern literature, profaners are often depicted in gritty urban settings, reflecting societal issues and personal struggles.

Psychology

Research suggests that people who use profanity may manage pain more effectively; swearing can provide a psychological boost during stressful situations.
Using strong language can create a sense of belonging among peers, as swearing often reflects a group identity and cultural norms.

Modern Usage

In today's digital age, online comment sections often see an increase in profane language, sparked by anonymity and lack of social accountability.
The rise of 'shock humor' in media has normalized certain levels of profanity, making it a common aspect of entertainment.

Origin of 'profaner'

Main points about word origin

The word 'profaner' comes from the Latin term 'profanus,' meaning 'outside the temple,' describing someone who was not part of sacred practices.
In its root, 'profanus' combines 'pro' (before) and 'fanum' (temple), highlighting a divide between the sacred and the ordinary.

The word 'profaner' originates from the Latin word 'profanare', which means to desecrate or violate. Over time, the term has come to be associated with individuals who show disrespect towards sacred or holy things. The concept of profanity has been a topic of debate in various cultures and religions, with different societies establishing norms regarding what is considered acceptable language and behavior.