What is ебать?

Ебать (IPA: [jɪˈbɑtʲ]) is one of the most famous and versatile words in Russian profanity. It is generally considered extremely vulgar and offensive.

• Literal Meaning: The word is derived from the verb "ебать" (jebátʹ), which literally means "to fuck" or "to have sexual intercourse."

• Figurative Usage: Its use extends far beyond its literal definition. It functions as an interjection, intensifier, expletive, and can be used in various phrases to express a wide range of emotions, including anger, surprise, frustration, admiration, or disbelief. The specific meaning is highly context-dependent.

• Grammatical Variations: The word has many derived forms and is used as a root for other profanities. Examples include:

  • еба́ный (jebányj) - a common adjective, often translated as "fucking"
  • еба́ть (jebátʹ) - the infinitive form, "to fuck"
  • еб твою мать (jeb tvoyú mátʹ) - "fuck your mother," a very strong insult
  • доебаться (doyebatsya) - "to harass" or "to nag"

• Social Context: Use of ебать and its derivatives is widely considered unacceptable in formal settings and polite conversation. Its use signifies a lack of respect and can cause offense. However, within certain informal social groups, especially among close friends, its use can be more tolerated, though it still carries a strong, vulgar connotation. It is a core element of Russian Mat.

• Equivalents: Finding direct English equivalents is difficult because the impact and cultural significance are not perfectly aligned. Depending on the context, translations like "fuck," "damn," "shit," or simply intensifiers like "really" or "extremely" might be appropriate.