Obscene
/əbˈsiːn/
Meaning & Definition
adjective
Offensively or disgustingly sexual or lewd.
Many people found the film's gratuitous nudity to be obscene.
Shocking to the moral sense; morally repugnant.
The obscene behavior displayed at the party was condemned by the community.
Extremely inappropriate; beyond acceptable standards.
The politician's obscene wealth in the face of a dire economy sparked outrage.
Etymology
Middle English obscene, from Latin obscenus 'foul, unclean, or repulsive'
Common Phrases and Expressions
obscene gesture
A hand movement that is considered offensive, often sexual in nature.
obscene amount
A quantity that is excessively large or unreasonably high.
Related Words
indecent
Not proper or suitable; morally offensive.
lewd
Showing an excessive or offensive sexual desire.
vulgar
Lacking sophistication or good taste; in bad taste.
Slang Meanings
X-rated
That movie was so X-rated that they had to restrict it to adults only.
Raunchy
His raunchy jokes were a hit at the party.
Filthy
The lyrics of that song are just filthy.