What does vulgarest mean?
Vulgarest is the superlative of vulgar and means the most lacking in refinement, good taste, or propriety. It is commonly used for language or behaviour considered indecent, crass, or offensive, although it can also describe anything perceived as exceptionally tasteless. For example, a performance might be called the vulgarest of the evening if it repeatedly relied on crude jokes or shocking material. The word is used in both British and American English and carries a firmly disapproving tone, so it is generally unsuitable in neutral or complimentary contexts. Although vulgar originally referred to the speech or customs of ordinary people without necessarily implying criticism, the modern word is overwhelmingly negative. Vulgarest therefore identifies the most extreme member of that negative category and is often used when comparing several offensive, crude, or undignified things.
adjective (superlative)The most vulgar: extremely lacking in refinement or good taste, and often considered indecent or offensive.
- Most lacking in refinement, good taste, or propriety; most indecent or offensive.
"The comedian's vulgarest routine alienated several members of the audience."
"That was the vulgarest remark he made all evening."
"The exhibition has been described as the vulgarest spectacle of the season."
Vulgarest began by describing what belonged to ordinary people, but its modern meaning can make a single word feel like a verdict on the whole audience.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of vulgarest
The word vulgar comes through Old French from Latin vulgaris, meaning “of the common people” or “ordinary,” ultimately from populus, “people.” Its sense of being unsuitable for refined or proper usage developed over time. Vulgarest is the standard English superlative formed from vulgar, while popular and the Vulgate reflect cognate forms associated with the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How vulgarest is actually used
This superlative is strongly negative and commonly describes language, behaviour, displays, or artistic choices. Its force ranges from excessive tastlessness to overt indecency depending on context.
Easily confused with vulgarest
Vulgar describes something generally lacking refinement or propriety, while vulgarest identifies the most vulgar example among several.