ribald — referring to sexual matters in an amusingly rude or irreverent way
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: referring to sexual matters in an amusingly rude or irreverent way
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈrɪbəld/
Example Sentences
- The ribald tavern songs would make a sailor blush.
- Shakespeare's plays often contained ribald wordplay that delighted groundlings.
- The professor's ribald comment about anatomy class caused an uproar.
ribald
ADJECTIVE[/ˈrɪbəld/]
referring to sexual matters in an amusingly rude or irreverent way

a colorful jester tells an animated story with exaggerated gestures and a mischievous grin. He winks at the crowd while making suggestive hand motions that imply adult themes. The tavern patrons burst into laughter with red faces and knowing smiles. Some cover their mouths while giggling, others slap the table in amusement. A few patrons look slightly shocked but still smile at the cheeky performance. sexual matters being discussed in an amusingly rude or irreverent way
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From 13th-century Old French 'ribald', originally meaning a debauched servant or rogue. It referred to court jesters and servants who told crude jokes and engaged in vulgar behavior in medieval times.
Breakdown
ribald (whole word from Old French, no clear prefix/suffix breakdown - originally described lowly servants known for crude humor)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The ribald tavern songs would make a sailor blush.”
“Shakespeare's plays often contained ribald wordplay that delighted groundlings.”
“The professor's ribald comment about anatomy class caused an uproar.”
“Her ribald sense of humor was both shocking and entertaining.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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