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Definition of bawdy

bawdy

/ˈbɔːdi/
baw · dy
Adverb:bawdily
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bawdy Lexical Profile

bawdy Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Dealing with sexual matters in a comical, earthy, or humorously indecent way.

Example

"The tavern patrons roared with laughter as the troupe performed a series of bawdy folk songs."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

Humorously indecent or ribald talk or writing.

Example

"Elizabethan comedies are famous for blending high poetic drama with clever street bawdy."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'obscene' or 'vulgar', which carry strong negative judgment, 'bawdy' typically implies earthy, good-natured, and humorous ribaldry rather than offensive crudeness.

• Rhymes for bawdy

• Nearby Words

batwing
bauble
bawdiness
bawdy
bawl
bawler
bay

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Late Middle English 'bawde' (meaning a procurer or brothel keeper), itself shortened from Old French 'baude' ('bold, merry') of Germanic origin.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bawdy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bawdy
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