bawdry

[ baw-dree ]

noun

1. Archaic. lewdness; obscenity; bawdiness.
2. Obsolete.
   1. the business of a prostitute.
   2. illicit intercourse; fornication.

bawdry

/ ˈbɔːdrɪ /

noun

1. archaic.
   obscene talk or language

Word History and Origins

Origin of bawdry¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, bawdry is from the Middle English word bawdery. See bawd, -ery

Example Sentences

Thus, Brooks lumps 1601 with Mark Twain's "bawdry," and interprets it simply as another indication of frustration.

From Project Gutenberg

Well, I like a little innocent mirth myself, but never could endure bawdry.

From Project Gutenberg

This will prove rare sport, to see how the poet's genius will grapple with this bawdry!

From Project Gutenberg

It is also noteworthy that, for the period, the bawdry is "cut" to the lowest limit.

From Project Gutenberg

He was primed with the letter-accounts; he made her dot her amorous I's and cross her bawdry T's.

From Project Gutenberg