What does obscene mean in Greek?

There isn't a single perfect equivalent for "obscene" in ancient Greek, as the concept itself evolved differently across cultures and time periods. The meaning depends heavily on context. However, several words and phrases could be used depending on the *kind* of obscenity:

* αἰσχρός (aischros): This is the closest general term and means "shameful," "ugly," "disgraceful," or "base." It covers a wide range of morally objectionable things, including indecent acts or language. It relates more to the social stigma and disgrace associated with something than to explicit sexual content.

* ἀσεβής (asebēs): This means "impious," "ungodly," or "irreverent." While not directly translating to "obscene," it could be applied to acts or language considered offensive to the gods or sacred norms.

* βωμολοχία (bōmolochia): This refers to "ribaldry," "buffoonery," or "coarse jesting." It's closer to the sense of vulgar or lewd language than a broader definition of obscenity.

* μοχθηρός (mochthēros): This means "wicked," "evil," or "malicious." It could describe obscene acts motivated by malice rather than simply the act's indecent nature.

Therefore, depending on the *type* of obscenity, one would choose the most fitting term. There wasn't a single word that encapsulated the modern English meaning of "obscene" in the way we use it. The Greeks relied on words that highlighted the specific objectionable aspect of the act or language – whether it was shameful, impious, vulgar, or wicked.