vulgar
Vulgar (adj) means Crude, tasteless, or offensive, especially in speech or behaviour. Example: “His vulgar jokes made half the room uncomfortable.”
How to use vulgar
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCrude or tasteless — or, in an older sense, simply "of ordinary people" rather than refined or elite.
The everyday meaning (crude, offensive) is now far more common than the older "of common people" sense — don't assume the historical meaning in modern writing.
Word forms
more vulgar comparative, vulgarer comparative, vulgars plural, most vulgar superlative, vulgarest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ jokes made half the room uncomfortable.
Etymology
From Latin vulgaris, "of the common people," from vulgus, "the crowd, the masses."
Frequently asked questions
What does “vulgar” mean?
The word “vulgar” means crude, tasteless, or offensive, especially in speech or behaviour. In plain terms, crude or tasteless — or, in an older sense, simply "of ordinary people" rather than refined or elite.
How do you pronounce “vulgar”?
“Vulgar” is pronounced VUHL-guh (/ˈvʌl.ɡɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “vulgar” in a sentence?
Here is “vulgar” used in a sentence: “His vulgar jokes made half the room uncomfortable.”
What part of speech is “vulgar”?
“Vulgar” is an adjective.
Where does the word “vulgar” come from?
The word “vulgar” comes from Latin. From Latin vulgaris, "of the common people," from vulgus, "the crowd, the masses.".
Is “vulgar” a common word?
“Vulgar” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “vulgar” have?
“Vulgar” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: crude, tasteless, or offensive, especially in speech or behaviour.
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