What does ribald mean?
Ribald is an adjective describing humor, jokes, remarks, or other expressions that are bawdy, lewd, or suggestive. Its distinctive feature is the combination of sexual impropriety with a comic or mocking quality: a ribald joke may be vulgar without being intended seriously or crudely pornographic. The word is especially associated with witty, theatrical, and historical writing, giving it a somewhat old-fashioned tone. In modern usage, it most often appears in phrases such as “ribald humor,” “ribald wit,” and “ribald remarks.” Although “lewd” and “bawdy” can describe conduct or content more generally, “ribald” often emphasizes the humorous treatment of obscenity. It is not simply a polite synonym for erotic, and it normally carries a mildly critical or amused judgment.
Bawdy, lewd, or lustful, especially in a humorous or mocking way.
"The audience roared at his ribald comments."
Often used of jokes, humor, remarks, or theatrical material involving sexual innuendo.
A jester or comic performer, especially one associated with bawdy jokes; now chiefly historical.
"The ribald entertained the court with bawdy songs and mocking verses."
This noun is archaic or literary and is much less common than the adjective.
Ribald comedy is often funny because it turns impropriety into a joke, but the word carries a distinctly old-fashioned, medieval flavor.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ribald come from?
The word entered Middle English from Old French ribaud, meaning lewd or bawdy. In medieval usage it could also refer to a comic performer or jester associated with bawdy jokes, and the modern adjective developed from that association. The term's history links sexual innuendo with the lively, mocking humor of medieval entertainment.
Related word forms
How ribald is actually used
Ribald is more common in the context of humorous or theatrical bawdry than in descriptions of ordinary sexual behavior. It can suggest sexual innuendo or vulgarity, often with an amused or mocking tone.