noun

profanity

pruh-FA-nih-tee

Profanity (noun) means swearing or offensive language. Example: “The comedian’s routine was full of profanity.”

noun

Swearing or offensive language.

"The comedian’s routine was full of profanity."

The quality of being disrespectful toward sacred things.

"The essay explored profanity and reverence in medieval art."

How to use profanity

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSwear words, or disrespect toward what’s considered sacred.

Common pairings

a stream of profanity ban profanity

profanities plural

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The comedian’s routine was full of _____.

From Latin profānitās, built from profane + -ity.

Origin: Latin

city pity deity acuity parity entity brevity opacity paucity ability quality reality

What does “profanity” mean?

The word “profanity” means swearing or offensive language. In plain terms, swear words, or disrespect toward what’s considered sacred.

How do you pronounce “profanity”?

“Profanity” is pronounced pruh-FA-nih-tee (/prəˈfænɪti/ in IPA).

How do you use “profanity” in a sentence?

Here is “profanity” used in a sentence: “The comedian’s routine was full of profanity.”

What part of speech is “profanity”?

“Profanity” is a noun.

Where does the word “profanity” come from?

The word “profanity” comes from Latin. From Latin profānitās, built from profane + -ity.

How many meanings does “profanity” have?

“Profanity” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: swearing or offensive language.