What does profanity mean?
Profanity names language that is vulgar, disrespectful, or considered offensive, especially profanity involving sacred subjects or indecent or insulting expressions. It can refer to this kind of language collectively, as in a discussion of profanity in television, or to an individual swear word. In formal contexts, the word is often used descriptively, while everyday speakers may prefer swearing or cursing. Profanity is broader than obscenity, which focuses particularly on indecent or sexual material, and narrower than blasphemy only in the sense that blasphemy specifically concerns disrespect toward religion. The word is especially useful for discussing offensive language without repeating the offensive expressions themselves.
nounThe use of words or language that is disrespectful or offensive, especially sacred or indecent words. It can also refer to a swear word or an act of swearing.
- Language that is disrespectful, vulgar, or offensive, especially words regarded as improper or indecent.
- A swear word or oath considered vulgar or offensive.
- An act of using such language or of speaking irreverently about sacred subjects.
"The broadcaster apologized for the profanity heard during the interview."
"The film was heavily edited to remove profanity from its soundtrack."
"His reply was marked by profanity, which surprised everyone in the quiet room."
The plural is used for individual swear words or offensive expressions, whereas the uncountable form profanity refers collectively to offensive language.
"The teacher removed several profanities from the students' essays."
The word profanity comes from a Latin root meaning “outside the temple,” connecting everyday swearing with the idea of treating sacred things with contempt.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of profanity
Profanity comes from the adjective profane, which in turn derives from Latin profanus, meaning “outside the temple” or “not pertaining to sacred things.” Profane developed in English with meanings connected with irreverence, wickedness, and lack of respect for religious or moral standards. The noun profanity reflects this history by describing language that treats sacred or serious subjects with contempt.
Related word forms
How profanity is actually used
Profanity is commonly used as an uncountable noun for offensive language in general, while the plural profanities can refer to individual swear words. The term may sound formal or descriptive, whereas the more informal words such as swearing and cursing are also common.
Easily confused with profanity
Profanity broadly means language considered disrespectful or offensive, whereas obscenity usually refers more specifically to indecent, especially sexual, material.
Blasphemy specifically concerns speech or behavior that insults religion or sacred subjects, while profanity is a broader term for offensive language.