Arsehole

Ret's Word of the Day: Arsehole
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Arsehole

/ˈɑːs.həʊl/ (UK) | /ˈæs.hoʊl/ (US)

(Pronounced: ahrs-hohl (UK) | as-hohl (US))
UK pronunciation   US pronunciation

Meaning: A contemptible, obnoxious, or unpleasant person — someone who is rude, selfish, or stupid. (Very vulgar slang; US variant: "asshole". Also literally means the anus.)

Dialogue

  • Ben: "That driver just cut me off without signalling!"
  • Claire: "What a reckless idiot."
  • Ben: "Yeah, he's a complete arsehole."
  • Claire: "Totally agree — some people have no manners on the road."

Etymology

"Arsehole" literally means the anus, from Middle English "arce-hoole" (around 1400), combining "arse" (Old English for buttocks) and "hole." The figurative use as an insult for a despicable or stupid person emerged in the 20th century (attested from the 1930s onward), extending the vulgar anatomical term to describe contemptible behavior.

Audience

When to use: Common in informal, casual British/Australian English (and "asshole" in US) as a strong insult for rude or obnoxious people. It's highly vulgar and offensive — avoid in polite, formal, or professional settings. Milder alternatives: "jerk," "idiot," or "prat."

Video

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