Main Entry: ob·scene

Pronunciation: \äb-ˈsēn, əb-\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle French, from Latin obscenus, obscaenus

Date: 1593

1 : disgusting to the senses : repulsive
2 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