adj.
Pronunciation: äb- ' s ē n, ə b-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle French, from Latin obscenus, obscaenus
Date: 1593
1 : disgusting to the senses : REPULSIVE
2 a : abhorrent to morality or virtue specifically : designed to incite to lust or depravity b : containing or being language regarded as taboo in polite usage < obscene lyrics> c : repulsive by reason of crass disregard of moral or ethical principles <an obscene misuse of power> d : so excessive as to be offensive < obscene wealth> < obscene waste>
synonyms see COARSE
– ob · scene · ly adverb