vulgar
UK: ˈvʌlɡə | US: ˈvʌlɡər
adj. lacking sophistication or good taste; unrefined
adj. associated with ordinary people or common speech
adj. (archaic) vernacular or native (e.g., vulgar Latin)
vulgar = vulg<common> + ar<adjective suffix>
- vulg<common>: From Latin vulgus (the common people, multitude).
- ar<adjective suffix>: A Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives (e.g., solar, lunar).
Etymology Origin:
The word vulgar traces back to Latin vulgaris ("of the common people"), derived from vulgus ("the public, masses"). Initially neutral, it later acquired negative connotations as elite cultures contrasted "common" traits with refinement. This shift reflects societal hierarchies valuing exclusivity over populism.
His vulgar jokes offended the sophisticated audience.
The play used vulgar language to depict working-class life.
"Vulgar Latin" refers to the spoken form of Latin before it evolved into Romance languages.
She found the bright neon signs vulgar and tasteless.
The artist rejected vulgar commercialism in favor of subtlety.