Swearings

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A practice of expressing strong emotions or frustration using offensive language or profanity; the act of making a solemn promise or oath often accompanied by the use of curse words; the use of vulgar or obscene expressions to assert intensity in a statement or to emphasize a point in conversation
2. The act of uttering expletives to convey anger, surprise, or emphasis; a formal declaration or promise often involving a commitment, which can include the use of harsh language for effect; the occurrence of using taboo language to heighten the emotional weight of an expression in dialogue
3. The expressive use of curse words to articulate strong feelings or irritation; the formal act of binding oneself to a commitment that may involve offensive expressions; the inclusion of disparaging or vulgar terms to amplify the seriousness or urgency of a message

Etymology: "Swearings" is the plural of "swearing," a noun meaning the use of curses or oaths. It takes its shape from the verb "swear" with the suffix "-ing," which turns an action into a noun. The base verb traces back to Old English "swerian," meaning to take an oath or to affirm something solemnly, and the sense of profanity grew out of that older meaning of formal, binding promises. The plural form is used when referring to instances or episodes of cursing, as in several separate outbursts. "Swearing" itself comes from Middle English "swerynge," which kept the same pattern of verb plus "-ing."

Synonyms: oaths, curses, profanities, expletives, blasphemies

Antonyms: blessings, praises, compliments, commendations, sanctifications