Main Entry: rude

Pronunciation: \ˈrüd\

Function: adjective

Inflected Form(s): rud·er; rud·est

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin rudis; probably akin to Latin rudus rubble

Date: 14th century

1 a : being in a rough or unfinished state : crude b : natural, raw <rude cotton> c : primitive, undeveloped <peasants use rude wooden plows — Jack Raymond> d : simple, elemental <landscape done in rude whites, blacks, deep browns — Richard Harris>
2 : lacking refinement or delicacy: a : ignorant, unlearned b : inelegant, uncouth c : offensive in manner or action : discourteous d : uncivilized, savage e : coarse, vulgar
3 : marked by or suggestive of lack of training or skill : inexperienced <rude workmanship>
4 : robust, sturdy <in rude health>
5 : occurring abruptly and disconcertingly <a rude awakening>

— rude·ly adverb

synonyms rude, rough, crude, raw mean lacking in social refinement. rude implies ignorance of or indifference to good form; it may suggest intentional discourtesy <rude behavior>. rough is likely to stress lack of polish and gentleness <rough manners>. crude may apply to thought or behavior limited to the gross, the obvious, or the primitive <a crude joke>. raw suggests being untested, inexperienced, or unfinished <turning raw youths into polished performers>.