Definition of nasty

The word "nasty" has a long and complex etymology. The earliest recorded use of "nasty" dates back to the 15th century, derived from the Old English word "nest" meaning "filth" or "dirt". This original sense of the word implied something that was dirty, foul-smelling, or disgusting. Over time, the meaning of "nasty" shifted to convey not only physical unpleasantness but also moral or social disapproval. By the 17th century, "nasty" could describe people or actions considered vile, rude, or unpleasant. In modern English, "nasty" is often used to describe a wide range of unpleasant things, from bad weather to unpleasant experiences. Despite its evolution, the word's core meaning remains tied to the idea of something being unpleasant, unappealing, or even repulsive.