To save this word, you'll need to log in.
dys·phe·mism | \ ˈdis-fə-ˌmi-zəm 
\
\Definition of dysphemism
: the substitution of a disagreeable, offensive, or disparaging expression for an agreeable or inoffensive one also : an expression so substituted
Other Words from dysphemism
dysphemistic \ ˌdis-fə-ˈmi-stik \ adjective
\ adjectiveKeep scrolling for more
Learn More about dysphemism
From the Editors at Merriam-Webster
Hyperbole, and Other Fancy Rhetorical...
Hyperbole, and Other Fancy Rhetorical Words
So that's what that's called
Dictionary Entries near dysphemism
See More Nearby EntriesStatistics for dysphemism
Look-up Popularity
Time Traveler for dysphemism
The first known use of dysphemism was in 1884
Comments on dysphemism
What made you want to look up dysphemism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Pass the Little Ribbons: A Pasta Word Quiz
- Match the pasta to its meaning in English: Rotelle
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Pass the Little Ribbons: A Pasta Word Quiz
Match the pasta with its meaning in Italian.
Take the quiz - Confusing Words—A Quiz
Test your knowledge of these commonly confused words!
Take the quiz - Spell It
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
Take the quiz - Add Diction
Build a chain of words by adding one letter at a time.
Play the game
Share dysphemism
Resources for dysphemism