profanity
UK: /prəˈfæn.ə.ti/ | US: /proʊˈfæn.ə.ti/
n. offensive or vulgar language
n. irreverence toward something sacred
n. an instance of using such language
profanity = pro<before> + fan<temple> + ity<noun suffix>
- pro<before>: From Latin pro- ("before, in front of"). In this context, it implies "outside" or "against."
- fan<temple>: From Latin fanum ("temple, sacred place"). The root refers to religious or consecrated spaces.
- ity<noun suffix>: A suffix forming abstract nouns indicating state or quality (e.g., purity, sanity).
Etymology Origin:
The word profanity originates from Latin profanus, combining pro- ("outside") and fanum ("temple"). It originally described things or language "outside the temple"—i.e., secular or irreverent toward sacred matters. Over time, it narrowed to specifically denote vulgar or blasphemous speech, reflecting societal taboos around mixing sacred and vulgar domains.
The comedian's routine was criticized for its excessive profanity.
In some cultures, profanity is strictly forbidden in public discourse.
The film received an R rating due to violence and profanity.
He apologized for his outburst of profanity during the meeting.
Religious texts often warn against the use of profanity.