To understand this genre, one must first understand the word. In Sinhala, "kunuharupa" (කුණුහරුප) is a term for dirty, filthy, or foul language. While its use in everyday conversation is generally considered taboo, it has always played a complex role in Sri Lankan society.
The Sinhala word "kunuharupa" (කුනුහරුප) has several layers of meaning. In its most literal sense, it is a piece of aggressive profanity. Broadly, it is used to describe any form of abusive, obscene, or foul language—words used to degrade or curse someone. In this context, "kunuharupa katha" can simply mean a story filled with such language.