English Reference
Noun

profanity

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US /pɹoʊˈfænəti/ UK /pɹəfˈænɪti/ pro·fan·i·ty UK spelling profanities

n.offensive or rude language, especially swear words. It is often used to describe words that are considered socially unacceptable or disrespectful.

n.blasphemous or obscene language. Often refers to the use of swear words or irreverent speech regarding sacred things.


SIMPLE

The movie contains a lot of profanity.

CONTEXTUAL

The television network decided to bleep out the profanity to ensure the program remained suitable for younger viewers.

COMPLEX

While some critics argue that profanity in literature adds a layer of gritty realism, others believe it often serves as a lazy substitute for more nuanced character development.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general use of such language; countable when referring to specific instances or words.

Swearing is also surprisingly good for you : uttering a profanity can decrease physical pain and increase focus.

The Guardian· 9 Sept 2026

And then when they use profanity, then everyone asks, how can our girls cuss and swear," says Bhandare.

BBC News· 26 Aug 2026

Borrowed from Latin profānitās. By surface analysis, profane + -ity.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin profānitās
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated