adjective

offensive

uh-FEN-siv/əˈfensɪv/

Causing anger, hurt, or disgust.

The dismissive gesture is offensive to the visibly hurt recipient.

An adult making a rude dismissive gesture toward another adult whose hurt and offended expression is clear, social interaction not caricature, no words or speech bubbles.

Etymology

ofLatinagainst

+fensLatinto strike

+iveLatinforming an adjective

“Striking against” links the physical idea of attack with the figurative idea of giving displeasure. Offensive applies that image to things that insult, hurt feelings, or provoke disgust.

In context

The Humanist Report46:45

to point that out is offensive to tucker carlson interesting whatever happened to facts don't care about your feelings

Outbreak in the White House | Episode 261 (October 9, 2020)

More examples

An offensive odor drifts from the overflowing trash can.
She apologizes for the offensive remark about his accent.
I find the article's racial stereotypes deeply offensive.

Forms

offensive · more offensive · most offensive

offensively adverb — In a way that causes offense.

offensiveness noun — The quality of causing anger, hurt, or disgust.

Similar words

insulting: Emphasizes disrespect toward someone rather than disgust or general displeasure.
disgusting: Emphasizes strong revulsion rather than hurt feelings or disrespect.
objectionable: Emphasizes reasons for disapproval, not necessarily a strong emotional reaction.