Main Entry:

ob·scene

Pronunciation:

\äb-ˈsēn, əb-\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle French, from Latin obscenus, obscaenus

Date:

1593

1: disgusting to the senses : repulsive2 a: abhorrent to morality or virtue ; specifically : designed to incite to lust or depravity b: containing or being language regarded as taboo in polite usage <obscene lyrics> c: repulsive by reason of crass disregard of moral or ethical principles <an obscene misuse of power> d: so excessive as to be offensive <obscene wealth> <obscene waste>

synonyms see coarse

— ob·scene·ly adverb