Where do swear words originate from?

Answer 1

Swear words or "profanities" have developed gradually and non deliberately and can vary between cultures and within the same culture over time. The words usually refer to private body parts, bodily functions or religion. But they can also refer to other things that people may find offensive. Some think Shakespeare inadvertantly created some words that people find offensive (he was the first to use the word "puke" in print - in "As you like it"). Chaucer has also been credited in coining the word "c*nt" (in "The Wife of Bath"). What is offensive to people today may not have been hundreds of years ago and vice versa. But many examples also stand the test of time. The V-sign (non-verbal swearing) is suggested (although by no means proven) to have originated from the Hundred Years War (1337-1453) when the French reportedly chopped off these fingers of captured English Archers, causing the non captured archers still in possession of those fingers to wave them, tauntingly, at the others. In short, there isn't really one person that invented swear words. It's generally natural for someone to utter something considered "unpleasant" when annoyed!

i think it all started with the different types of religions having specific cursed words that are forbidden to be used.
cheese

Answer 2

Swear words have diverse origins, often influenced by historical events, social dynamics, or cultural developments. Some swear words have roots in old English, Latin, or Norse languages, while others have evolved over time due to societal changes or popular usage. The derogatory nature of these words typically stems from taboos, power dynamics, or emotions associated with certain topics.