Profane

Adjective

Definition: Irreverent or disrespectful towards religious or sacred things; vulgar or obscene.

Synonyms: Sacrilegious, Blasphemous, Irreverent

Antonyms: Reverent, Sacred, Holy

Examples:

The comedian's profane jokes offended some members of the audience.
She was shocked by his profane language during the argument.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word 'pro' meaning against or opposite, and 'fane' rhyming with 'profane' sounds like 'fame'. So, profane goes against sacred or famous things.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "profane" comes from the Latin word "profanus," which means "unholy" or "unconsecrated." It is derived from the combination of "pro" meaning "before" or "in front of" and "fanum" meaning "temple" or "holy place." The term originally referred to things or actions that were not associated with religious rituals or ceremonies.

Historical Usage:

The term "profane" has been used since Middle English and has evolved over time to encompass its current meanings related to disrespect towards sacredness and obscenity.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Profane language"

Explanation:

Refers to the use of vulgar or offensive words in speech or writing.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "profane" interchangeably with "obscene."

Explanation:

While obscenity can be a component of profanity, profane also includes disrespect towards religious or sacred elements, which may not necessarily involve explicit obscenity.