euphemism - an inoffensive expression that is substituted for one that is considered offensiveneutralisation, neutralization - (euphemism) the removal of a threat by killing or destroying it (especially in a covert operation or military operation) blank - a substitute for a taboo word; "I hit the blank blank car" darn - a euphemism for `damn' heck - a euphemism for `hell'; "Oh what the heck" locution, saying, expression - a word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations; "pardon the expression" collateral damage - (euphemism) inadvertent casualties and destruction inflicted on civilians in the course of military operations 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" |