Coarse
/kɔːrs/
Definitions
2 meaningsRough and not smooth or fine; lacking refinement
/kɔːrs/
Rough or unrefined in texture
The coarse wool scratched her skin.
💡 Simply: Imagine sandpaper—that's coarse! It's rough and not smooth. Like a really scratchy sweater.
👶 For kids: Rough and bumpy, not smooth like silk.
More Examples
He had a coarse manner that made people uncomfortable.
How It's Used
"The coarse fabric was uncomfortable against her skin."
"The coarse ground flour was perfect for rustic bread."
Lacking refinement or sensitivity; vulgar
/kɔːrs/
Crude or vulgar in manner or language
His coarse language was inappropriate for the occasion.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone yelling rude jokes—that's coarse behavior! It's not polite or refined. Think of a loud, unpleasant person.
👶 For kids: Not nice or polite, saying mean things.
More Examples
She found his manner coarse and offensive.
How It's Used
"His coarse jokes offended many guests."
From Old French *cors, from Latin *cursus, past participle of currere "to run", referring to the texture of woven threads.
Historically, 'coarse' was frequently used to describe the texture of fabrics and grains.
Memory tip
Think of a 'course' grain of sand - rough and not smooth.
Word Origin
"to run"