Exciting and bold, often containing risky or slightly inappropriate content.
From 'race' (a fast pace), originating in early 1600s to describe something with speed and vigor. The modern sense of 'slightly risqué' developed in the 1800s as the excitement and danger connotations expanded.
The word shows how 'fast' and 'exciting' can evolve into meaning 'daring' or 'edgy'—speed itself became thrilling enough to carry naughtiness by association. English loves borrowing from physical sensations to describe emotional experiences.
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