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Profanity: meaning, definitions and examples

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profanity

 

[ prəˈfanəti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

inappropriate language

Profanity refers to language that is considered vulgar, offensive, or taboo in social contexts. It includes words or expressions that are considered disrespectful, obscene, or blasphemous.

Synonyms

cursing, obscenity, swearing, vulgarity

Examples of usage

  • Using profanity is not allowed in this establishment.
  • She was shocked by the profanity he used during the argument.
  • The comedian's routine was filled with profanity.
  • He was reprimanded for his profanity-laden speech.
  • The profanity in the movie caused controversy among viewers.
Context #2 | Noun

blasphemous language

Profanity can also refer to language that is disrespectful or irreverent towards religious beliefs or sacred things. It may involve cursing, swearing, or using offensive language in a religious context.

Synonyms

desecration, impiety, irreverence, sacrilege

Examples of usage

  • She was offended by the profanity directed at her religion.
  • The book was criticized for its use of profanity towards religious figures.
  • The protesters shouted profanity at the church members.
  • His profanity towards the sacred text shocked many.
  • The film was banned for its profanity towards religious symbols.

Translations

Translations of the word "profanity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 profanidade

🇮🇳 अश्लीलता

🇩🇪 Obszönität

🇮🇩 kekurangajaran

🇺🇦 непристойність

🇵🇱 wulgaryzm

🇯🇵 冒涜

🇫🇷 profanité

🇪🇸 profanidad

🇹🇷 küfür

🇰🇷 불경

🇸🇦 تدنيس

🇨🇿 sprostota

🇸🇰 sprostosť

🇨🇳 亵渎

🇸🇮 profane

🇮🇸 guðlast

🇰🇿 қасиеттілік

🇬🇪 სიწმინდე

🇦🇿 lənət

🇲🇽 profanidad

Etymology

The word 'profanity' originated in the late 15th century from the Latin word 'profanitas', meaning 'irreverence for sacred things'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass vulgar or offensive language in general social contexts as well. The concept of profanity has been a subject of debate and regulation in various cultures and societies throughout history.

See also: profaneness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,856, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.