Scurrilous

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈskʌ.ɹə.ləs/

Definitions

1. Conveying a sense of mockery through coarse or abusive language is a trait of this descriptor
2. Characterized by harsh and insulting language intended to offend or damage someone's reputation
3. Using language that is coarse and meant to degrade or ridicule in a hurtful way

Etymology: The Romans had a sharp word for a certain kind of entertainer: "scurra," a buffoon, a jester who earned a living by making people laugh at others. From it came the Latin adjective "scurrilis," meaning buffoon-like, and the English "scurrilous" is that adjective with the familiar "-ous" ending added on the way in. The original sense was about behaving like a clown or a joker rather than about insult. Over time the emphasis moved from the clown's antics to the cruelty behind them. A jester's humour often came at someone else's expense, so the buffoon's mockery became the defining feature, and "scurrilous" drifted toward language that is coarse, abusive and meant to belittle. Today it is most often applied to slander or gossip dressed up as jokes.

Synonyms: abusive, slanderous, defamatory, libelous, malicious

Antonyms: praiseworthy, complimentary, respectful, honorable, virtuous