risqué

[ri-skey, rees-key]

adjective

1. daringly close to indelicacy or impropriety; off-color.

   a risqué story.

   Synonyms: ribald, indecent, gross, broad

risqué

/ ˈrɪskeɪ /

adjective

1. bordering on impropriety or indecency

   a risqué joke

Word History and Origins

Origin of risqué¹

1865–70; < French, past participle of risquer to risk

Word History and Origins

Origin of risqué¹

C19: from French risquer to hazard, _risk

Example Sentences

"This is just fun - and that's all it has to be," she added of her often risqué live performances.

From BBC

Like most of his contemporaries, the 22-year-old explores themes of illicit activity, touting a risqué lifestyle in popular numbers like “La Batuta” and “Morro Mañoso.”

From Los Angeles Times

He tweaks the audience’s moral compass, and “After the Hunt” sounds like a dangerous spin on his risque business.

From Los Angeles Times

But it was up against other, hipper shows like The Word, and a balding, middle-aged, middle-class man being risqué suddenly seemed less cutting-edge.

From BBC

It’s a 20-minute cabaret-style performance, complete with a torch song and a cancan finale, the latter just a tad risqué.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bawdy 
• erotic 
• lewd 
• lurid 
• naughty 
• off-color 
• provocative 
• suggestive