English edit

Etymology edit

Borrowed from French dysphémisme, modelled after euphémisme, with the prefix dys-. (Can this(+) etymology be sourced?)

Pronunciation edit

  • enPR: dĭs'fə-mĭz"(ə)m, IPA(key): /ˈdɪs.fəˌmɪ.z(ə)m/

Noun edit

Examples

dysphemism (countable and uncountable, plural dysphemisms)

  1. (uncountable) 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.
  2. (countable) A word or phrase that is used to replace another in this way.

Antonyms edit

Related terms edit

Translations edit

Further reading edit