taboo word
Socially prohibited language
A taboo word is one that social convention forbids or strongly discourages speaking aloud.
The category includes profanity, slurs, and terms for bodily functions considered impolite in formal settings.
What counts as taboo varies by culture, context, and era—words once unspeakable may become mild, while others gain taboo status over time.
- profanityVulgar or obscene speech
- swearVow or use profanity
- curseInvoked harm through words
- obscenityIndecent word or act
- slurInsulting group label
expletive · vulgar · forbidden · offensive · locker room talk · censor · bleep · four-letter · dirty · foul · crude · potty mouth · blasphemy · explicit · inappropriate · uncouth · shocking · filthy