expletive
|ex-ple-tive|
/ˈɛksplɪtɪv/
filler or swear word
Etymology
'expletive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'expletivus,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'plere' meant 'to fill.'
'expletivus' transformed into the French word 'expletif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'expletive' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to fill out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a filler word or a swear word.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a word or phrase used to fill out a sentence or a line of verse without adding to the sense; a filler word.
The sentence was padded with unnecessary expletives.
Synonyms
Noun 2
an oath or swear word, often considered offensive or vulgar.
He muttered an expletive under his breath when he stubbed his toe.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/11 10:36