vulgarity

noun

vul·​gar·​i·​ty ˌvəl-ˈger-rə-tē How to pronounce vulgarity (audio)
-ˈga-rə-
plural vulgarities
1
: something vulgar
2
: the quality or state of being vulgar

Examples of vulgarity in a Sentence

a comedian known for her vulgarity I was shocked by the vulgarity of his language. He uttered a vulgarity and was silent. We have a policy against printing vulgarities in our magazine.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The juxtaposition of popular art’s messy vulgarity with the pristine aspirations of high art is surprisingly uninvolving. Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 16 June 2025 Higher courts often interpret whether cases fall under the protections of the First Amendment. Freedom of speech, including vulgarity, is common in such cases. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 16 June 2025 During the presentation by PMM Chesterton, which wants to redevelop the golf course, Kowalski used a vulgarity to describe how the houses would be too close to each other. Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 1 June 2025 The fans in Section 204, directly beyond where a right fielder stands, eschewed artistry for straight-up vulgarity. Will Sammon, New York Times, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for vulgarity

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of vulgarity was in 1579

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vulgarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vulgarity. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

vulgarity

noun
vul·​gar·​i·​ty ˌvəl-ˈgar-ət-ē How to pronounce vulgarity (audio)
plural vulgarities
1
: the quality or state of being vulgar
2
: something vulgar

More from Merriam-Webster on vulgarity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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