# lewd

/ˈɫud/ (US) · /lˈuːd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lewd
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing something that is rude or sexual in a way that makes people feel uncomfortable. It is often used for jokes, comments, or behavior that is not appropriate for a public place.

For teachers: referring to sexual matters in a crude, offensive, or lustful manner. Often used to describe behavior or speech that violates social norms of decency.

## Examples

- The man was arrested for making lewd comments to people on the street.
- The manager warned the staff that lewd jokes would not be tolerated in the workplace and could lead to dismissal.
- The film was criticized not for its artistic merit, but for a series of lewd scenes that many felt were included solely to provoke a scandalized reaction from the public.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'be' or 'become'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.