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scurrility

Other forms: scurrilities

The word scurrility refers to foul or vulgar language that’s meant to insult or offend, like mean-spirited jokes or cruel gossip.

Scurrility comes from the Latin word scurrilis, meaning "buffoonish" or "jesting," hinting at the lowbrow nature of scurrilous language. Historically, scurrility was associated with harsh jokes or crude remarks made to entertain at someone else’s expense. Today, this noun is used to describe language or behavior that crosses the line from humor into outright rudeness, often stirring conflict rather than laughter.

Definitions of scurrility
  1. noun
    foul-mouthed or abusive language
    synonyms: billingsgate
    see moresee less
    type of:
    abuse, contumely, insult, revilement, vilification
    a rude expression intended to offend or hurt
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