Advertisement

Advertisement

dysphemism

[ dis-fuh-miz-uhm ]

noun

  1. the substitution of a harsh, disparaging, or unpleasant expression for a more neutral one.
  2. an expression so substituted, as “cancer stick” for “cigarette.”


dysphemism

/ ˈdɪsfɪˌmɪzəm /

noun

  1. substitution of a derogatory or offensive word or phrase for an innocuous one
  2. the word or phrase so substituted


Discover More

Derived Forms

  • ˌdyspheˈmistic, adjective

Discover More

Other Words From

  • dysphe·mistic adjective

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of dysphemism1

First recorded in 1880–85; dys- + (eu)phemism

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of dysphemism1

C19: dys- + euphemism

Advertisement

Word of the Day

tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

Meaning and examples

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement


dysphemiadysphonia