Definition

Noun: - A profane, obscene, or socially offensive word or phrase, typically used to express strong emotion such as surprise, anger, or frustration.

Usage

A "curse word" is a type of taboo language. It is used for emotional emphasis, to insult, or to express vulgarity. Its use is often considered inappropriate in formal, polite, or professional settings.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to drop curse words": to use curse words casually or frequently.
  • The comedian dropped curse words throughout his routine.
• "a string of curse words": a series of curse words said in quick succession.
  • He muttered a string of curse words under his breath.

Variants and Related Words

• Expletive (noun): A milder, more formal synonym for a curse word, often referring to a swear word used as an interjection.
  • The editor removed all the expletives from the article.
• Swear word (noun): A very common synonym for "curse word."
• Profanity (noun): Language that is profane or blasphemous; the general category to which curse words belong.
  • The sign warned against profanity in the library.

Synonyms

• Swear word
• Oath
• Cuss word (informal)
• Four-letter word (specifically for short, vulgar words)
• Dirty word

Related Phrases

• Curse like a sailor: To swear very frequently and fluently.
  • He was so angry he started cursing like a sailor.
• Minced oath: A euphemistic alteration of a curse word (e.g., "darn" for "damn," "shoot" for "shit").
  • "Gosh" is a common minced oath for "God."

Noun

1. profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger
   • expletives were deleted