ASSHOLE.

/ˈæsˌhoʊl/

Noun

Anatomically mundane. Socially devastating.

Asshole — Specimen Study
Asshole — Signature Study
Asshole — Typewriter Study
Asshole — Monument Study

Meaning

A contemptuous label for someone considered selfish, obnoxious, inconsiderate, or cruel.

Origins

Straightforward compound of ass and hole.

Why Its Offensive

It reduces a person to a taboo body part and carries clear contempt.

Modern Usage

Common insult for objectionable behavior rather than intelligence alone.

Variations

asshole, asshat, asswipe

Cultural Notes

Strong enough to offend but mainstream enough to appear frequently in informal culture.