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R-rated

American  
[ahr-rey-tid] / ˈɑrˌreɪ tɪd /

adjective

  1. (of a motion picture) suitable for those under 17 years of age only when accompanied by an adult.

  2. mature, adult, or vulgar: R-rated jokes.

    R-rated language;

    R-rated jokes.


Etymology

Origin of R-rated

First recorded in 1965–70; R 3 ( def. ) + rate 1 ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Amazon MGM's other recent efforts have included Melania, about the US First Lady, and the R-rated thriller Crime 101, with the forthcoming Masters of the Universe set for release in June.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

But every original PG-13 or R-rated movie like “Sinners” that gets adults to theaters without their children feels like a miracle.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 22, 2025

I’d always had a somewhat advanced palate, jumping from Disney Channel original movies to R-rated thrillers that had their more adult thematic content edited for television.

From Salon • Jul. 10, 2025

The R-rated film starring Michael B. Jordan delighted critics and audiences who rewarded it with an “A” ranking on CinemaScore.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2025

He does know it suddenly makes sense why parents don’t want their kids watching R-rated movies—his imagination’s running wild.

From "Clean Getaway" by Nic Stone