risqué

American  

[ri-skey, rees-key] / rɪˈskeɪ, risˈkeɪ /

adjective

1. daringly close to indelicacy or impropriety; off-color.

   a risqué story.

   Synonyms:

   ribald, indecent, gross, broad

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risqué British  

/ ˈrɪskeɪ /

adjective

1. bordering on impropriety or indecency

   a risqué joke

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Etymology

Origin of risqué

1865–70; < French, past participle of risquer to risk

Explanation

Something risqué hints at sex or sexual content. risqué material isn't in your face or extreme — it's just a little naughty. When it comes to sexual material, porn features sex and hardly anything else. On the other end of the spectrum are movies, songs, and books that are simply risqué: these things just have a little sexual content. They might just mention sexual situations or sort of tease the viewer, but not show much. Things that are risqué are also called "spicy" or "racy."

Example Sentences

Then there’s the merchandise — not just the stuffed corgis or Penelope T-shirts but also Maxbone pet accessories, Allure Bridal dresses, Risque nail polish and Izzy and Liv’s newly launched Bridgerton line.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2024

Risque stories are out; Hearst recently reprimanded a woman guest who cut loose with a mild "damn."

From Time Magazine Archive

The conversation forever returned to Spa and Baden-Baden, and many wagers were made upon the amount of money which Risque would gain—first day—second day—first week, and so forth.

From Bohemian Days Three American Tales by Townsend, George Alfred

Caroline Evelyn Risque       The little boy holding the bird clings to the globe with his toes.

From Sculpture of the Exposition Palaces and Courts by James, Juliet Helena Lumbard

By good Luck it did not come down directly upon us, otherwise our Works would have run a very great Risque.

From The Travels and Adventures of James Massey by Patot, Simon Tyssot de