dysphemism (redirected from dysphemisms)

dysphemism [ˈdɪsfɪˌmɪzəm]

n

1. (Literary & Literary Critical Terms) substitution of a derogatory or offensive word or phrase for an innocuous one

2. (Literary & Literary Critical Terms) the word or phrase so substituted

[dys- + euphemism]

dysphemistic  adj

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dysphemism

1. a deliberate substitution of a disagreeable, offensive, or disparaging word for an otherwise inoffensive term, as pig for policeman.
2. an instance of such substitution. Cf. euphemism.

See also: Language

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

dysphemism - 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" jalopy, heap, bus - a car that is old and unreliable; "the fenders had fallen off that old bus" locution, saying, expression - a word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations; "pardon the expression" old man - an informal term for your father euphemism - an inoffensive or indirect expression that is substituted for one that is considered offensive or too harsh