History of Swear Words

E1 · 20m

F**k

The silly putty of the English language, our most malleable swear word can refer to sex, rage, confusion, excitement and a whole lot more.

E2 · 20m

Sh*t

With medieval roots as a term for excrement, this filthy vulgarity evolved over time into something much more versatile — and sometimes even positive.

E3 · 20m

Bitch

Though it literally means "female dog," in recent years, some women have started to reclaim the "B word" as a term of strength and solidarity.

E4 · 20m

D**k

You can have one or you can be one. But how did an unassuming nickname for "Richard" become one of our most popular swear words?

E5 · 20m

Pu**y

From its feline origins to its modern slang uses describing genitalia or insulting manhood, learn how "pu**y" has stood the test of time.

E6 · 20m

Damn

Though quite mild when compared with its profane brethren, "damn" has maintained its meaning from biblical times and can still pack a punch even today.