Word of the Day: Euphemism

eu·phe·mism

noun \ˈyü-fə-ˌmi-zəm\

: a mild or pleasant word or phrase that is used instead of one that is unpleasant or offensive

Full Definition of EUPHEMISM

:  the substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive expression for one that may offend or suggest something unpleasant; also :  the expression so substituted

— eu·phe·mist noun

— eu·phe·mis·tic adjective

— eu·phe·mis·ti·cal·ly adverb

Examples of EUPHEMISM

1. using “eliminate” as a euphemism for “kill”
2. Cougar is the euphemism for a woman who has reached mid-life, who is single, financially secure and on the lookout for relationships with younger men—as in “prey.” —Kerry Gold, Vancouver Sun, 17 Feb. 2001

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