Synonyms of euphemism

euphemism

noun

as in metaphor

a mild or pleasant word group of words that is used instead of one that is unpleasant or offensive

using "eliminate" as a euphemism for "kill"

She spoke in euphemisms when recounting the expletive-laden tirade.

Related Words

• metaphor
• phrase
• term
• idiom
• colloquialism
• neologism
• expression
• code word
• cliché
• analogy
• circumlocution
• simile
• modernism
• genteelism
• nice-nellyism
• locution
• provincialism
• slogan
• motto
• shibboleth
• byword
• watchword
• cry

Dissimilar Words

• epithet
• slur
• dysphemism
• swear
• expletive
• vulgarism
• obscenity
• profanity
• swearword

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of euphemism

Later, in a moment of high anxiety when Rafael is catching a beating, Sebastián will run to the bathroom to play his trumpet (not just a euphemism). — Sophie Monks Kaufman, IndieWire, 21 May 2026

Gendron thinks of euphemisms like this as red flags that someone is afraid to identify as old. — Angela Haupt, Time, 14 May 2026

Special military operation is Russia’s official euphemism for the country’s invasion of Ukraine. — Ashley Belanger, ArsTechnica, 30 Apr. 2026

Discussing why people use euphemisms online prepares children to pause and ask questions when unfamiliar terms appear. — Sharlette A. Kellum, The Conversation, 6 Apr. 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!