dysphemism

Meanings

Plural: dysphemisms

Noun

• an offensive or disparaging expression that is substituted for an inoffensive one
  • "his favorite dysphemism was to ask for axle grease when he wanted butter"
• The use of a word or phrase carrying negative connotations or imagery (especially one that is derogatory, offensive or vulgar) to replace a (more) neutral original.
• A word or phrase that is used to replace another in this way.

Antonyms

euphemism

Related Words

dysphemistic