# obscenity

/əbˈsɛnɪti/ (US) · /ɒbsˈɛnɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/obscenity
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

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.

For teachers: language or behavior that is offensive, indecent, or socially unacceptable. Often refers to profanity or explicit sexual content.

## Examples

- 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 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.