Arse

/ɑːs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The buttocks; the rear end.
He fell on his arse while trying to skate.
Used as a vulgar term for a person, often implying foolishness or annoyance.
Don't be such an arse; just listen to the instructions.
A contemptible or annoying person.
That bloke is a real arse; no one can stand him.

Etymology

Old English 'ears', of West Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'aars' and German 'Arsch'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

kick someone's arse
to defeat or reprimand someone
a pain in the arse
someone or something that is annoying
get off your arse
to stop being lazy and start doing something

Related Words

arsehole
an impolite term for a person regarded as unpleasant or contemptible
arsenic
a toxic element, plays on a similar phonetic structure
arse-up
to make a mistake or mess something up

Slang Meanings

an idiot
He's being a real arse today.
an annoying or contemptible person
I can't stand that arse at work.