Definition of expletive
1a : a syllable, word, or phrase inserted to fill a vacancy (as in a sentence or a metrical line) without adding to the sense; especially : a word (such as it in “make it clear which you prefer”) that occupies the position of the subject or object of a verb in normal English word order and anticipates a subsequent word or phrase that supplies the needed meaningful contentb : an exclamatory word or phrase; especially : one that is obscene or profane
2 : one that serves to fill out or as a filling
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Examples of expletive in a sentence
Angry expletives filled the air.
Expletives were deleted from the transcript of their conversation.
15th Century
First Known Use of expletive
15th century
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
expletive
Definition of expletive
1 : serving to fill up expletive phrases
2 : marked by the use of expletives
Origin and Etymology of expletive
Late Latin expletivus, from Latin expletus, past participle of explēre to fill out, from ex- + plēre to fill — more at full
First Known Use: 15th century
Other Grammar and Linguistics Terms
EXPLETIVE Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of expletive for English Language Learners
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: a word or phrase (such as “Damn it!”) that people sometimes say when they are angry or in pain; especially : one that is offensive
Learn More about expletive
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for expletive Spanish Central: Translation of expletive Nglish: Translation of expletive for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of expletive for Arabic speakers
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