dysphemism

noun

dys·​phe·​mism Ë?dis-fÉ™-ËŒmi-zÉ™m How to pronounce dysphemism (audio)
: the substitution of a disagreeable, offensive, or disparaging expression for an agreeable or inoffensive one
also : an expression so substituted
dysphemistic
ËŒdis-fÉ™-Ë?mi-stik How to pronounce dysphemism (audio)
adjective

Word History

Etymology

dys- + -phemism (in euphemism)

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dysphemism was in 1884

Dictionary Entries Near dysphemism

dysphasia

dysphemism

dysphonia

Cite this Entry

“Dysphemism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dysphemism. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

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