This word is found in colloquial speech in a number of cultures (in both English and in direct translation to other languages). This is due to the fact that it describes an organ of excretion that is considered a taboo region (belonging to the intimate parts) of the body in many societies.
The english word ass (meaning donkey, derived from the same root as its zoological name Equus asinus) may also be used as a term of contempt, referring to a silly or stupid person. In recent years, the words arse and ass have become synonymous.
For the card game sometimes known as "Asshole", see President (game)