obscenity
n.n. language or behavior that is very rude, offensive, or shocking. It is often used to describe words that are considered too dirty to say in public.
n. language or behavior that is offensive, indecent, or socially unacceptable. Often refers to profanity or explicit sexual content.
The film was banned for its graphic obscenity.
The comedian was asked to leave the club after using a word of extreme obscenity during his set.
The legal battle centered on whether the publication's use of obscenity was protected speech or a violation of public morals.
From obscene + -ity, from Latin obscenitas.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 19, 2026