verb / noun
swear
Use offensive language, or an instance of doing so.
He swears when he drops the hammer on his toe.
Etymology
Oaths traditionally invoked sacred names. Their irreverent or emphatic use developed into swearing as offensive or profane speech.
More examples
- Please don't swear in front of the children.
- She mutters a swear under her breath.
- The recording contains several loud swears after the mistake.
Forms
swear · swears · swore · sworn · swearing
Similar words
- curse
- Can mean offensive language or wishing harm on someone.
- cuss
- Cuss is an informal equivalent for using offensive language; swear is more neutral.