dysphemism

/ˈdɪs.fəˌmɪ.z(ə)m/

DꞮS · fəmɪ · z(ə)m (3 syllables)

English Noun

Definition

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.

Etymology

Borrowed from French dysphémisme, modelled after euphémisme, with the prefix dys-.