Definition of scurrilous

The word "scurrilous" is derived from the Middle English word "skyrulen," which meant "lascivious," "bawdy," or "lewd." The term eventually evolved to refer to indecent or obscene speech or writings. In the late 16th century, it took on the meaning of "calumnious," or "spreading false reports and rumors to defame someone." The exact origin of "scurrilous" is uncertain, but it is believed to share a similar root with "scurril," an archaic word meaning "rude" or "obscene." The word "scurrilous" gained popularity after being extensively used in English literature during the Renaissance period, particularly in the plays of William Shakespeare. It has also been used to describe the works of celebrated satirists such as Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope in the 18th century. In modern English, "scurrilous" continues to be used to describe behavior or speech that is malicious, false, and calumnious, with connotations of indecency and vulgarity. Its use has broadened to include more general negative adjectives, such as "disgraceful," "shameful," or "odious." However, because of its historical and literary associations, "scurrilous" still retains a more specific sense of literary and cultural critique.