vulgarity
UK: vʌlˈɡærəti | US: vʌlˈɡærəti
n. the quality of being crude, offensive, or lacking refinement
n. behavior or language that is socially unacceptable or distasteful
vulgarity = vulgar<common, coarse> + ity<noun suffix>
- vulgar: From Latin vulgaris ("of the common people"), derived from vulgus ("the public, masses"). Originally neutral, it later acquired negative connotations ("unrefined, coarse").
- ity: A noun-forming suffix from Latin -itas, indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin vulgus ("the masses"), reflecting a historical class divide where elite culture contrasted with "common" behavior. Over time, vulgar shifted from neutral ("popular") to pejorative ("crude"), and vulgarity emerged in the 16th century to encapsulate this negative quality. The suffix -ity formalizes the abstract concept, mirroring similar Latin-derived terms like brutality or generosity.
His speech was criticized for its vulgarity and lack of decorum.
The film’s vulgarity alienated some audiences.
She dismissed the joke as mere vulgarity.
Victorian society often equated poverty with moral vulgarity.
The comedian’s vulgarity was deliberate, aiming to shock rather than amuse.