History of Swear Words

Miniseries

TV-MA

69%54%

An education in expletives: the history lesson you didn’t know you needed hosted by Nicolas Cage. A loud and proudly profane series that explores the origins, pop culture-usage, science and cultural impact of curse words.

Where to Watch Miniseries

6 Episodes

F**k
E1
F**kThe silly putty of the English language, our most malleable swear word can refer to sex, rage, confusion, excitement and a whole lot more.
Sh*t
E2
Sh*tWith medieval roots as a term for excrement, this filthy vulgarity evolved over time into something much more versatile — and sometimes even positive.
Bitch
E3
BitchThough it literally means "female dog," in recent years, some women have started to reclaim the "B word" as a term of strength and solidarity.
D**k
E4
D**kYou can have one or you can be one. But how did an unassuming nickname for "Richard" become one of our most popular swear words?
Pu**y
E5
Pu**yFrom its feline origins to its modern slang uses describing genitalia or insulting manhood, learn how "pu**y" has stood the test of time.
Damn
E6
DamnThough quite mild when compared with its profane brethren, "damn" has maintained its meaning from biblical times and can still pack a punch even today.