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

Community member Fred Banuelos, who attended the meeting in a “Trump 2024” t-shirt, said that Perez’s outburst and use of profanity were unacceptable.

From Los Angeles Times

The new album opens with the driving noisy rock riffing of “Jerkin,’” as Taylor pushes back against haters with boasts and joyous profanity: “Last time I checked, I got success / Cuz the losers are online and they are obsessed / Typin’.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

I mentioned the polls that suggest Harris is leading the traditionally conservative bloc of older voters, and asked Martin if he thought that was because seniors recall a time when a presidential candidate didn’t use profanity and insults.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Salon

Related Words

• four-letter word
• obscenity
• swearing