profanity

[ pruh-fan-i-tee, proh- ]

noun

, plural pro·fan·i·ties

1. the quality of being profane; irreverence.

   Synonyms: sacrilege, blasphemy

2. profane conduct or language; a profane act or utterance.

   Synonyms: curse, malediction, sacrilege, blasphemy

3. obscenity ( defs 2, 3 ).

profanity

/ prəˈfænɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being profane
2. vulgar or irreverent action, speech, etc

Other Words From

• nonpro·fani·ty noun plural nonprofanities
• semi·pro·fani·ty noun plural semiprofanities

Word History and Origins

Origin of profanity¹

From the Late Latin word profānitās, dating back to 1600–10. See profane, -ity

Example Sentences

In 2008, internal affairs records show he was given a written reprimand for referring to a woman as a “broad” and repeatedly using profanity during a different training lecture.

From Los Angeles Times

Images from Carpenter's video show a crucifix with profanity printed on it and also Carpenter dancing on the altar in a short black dress.

From BBC

He is accused of changing menu prices, adding profanity and making “several menu changes that threatened public health and safety,” particularly by altering allergen information.

From Salon

The censorship of the c-word likely happened because it's profanity, not because it's misogynistic.

From Salon

He used other instances of profanity and derogatory language, the commission wrote, and spoke derisively of those who disagreed with him.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• four-letter word
• obscenity
• swearing