There are times when circumstances call for a gentler or pleasanter word or phrase rather than the most direct one. Such words and phrases are known as euphemisms, with the word …

Euphemism is the substitution of an expression that may offend or imply something unpleasant with one that is more agreeable or inoffensive (which may also be called a euphemism). [1]

Euphemism, a mild or indirect word or phrase used in place of a statement or word that is considered disagreeable or offensive. The word euphemism originated in the mid-17th century …

May 15, 2025 · A euphemism is a figure of speech that replaces a harsh, direct, or unpleasant term with a milder, more indirect expression. Euphemisms help us talk about uncomfortable …

The term euphemism refers to polite, indirect expressions which replace words and phrases considered harsh, impolite, or which suggest something unpleasant.

Polite and respectful (Definition of euphemism from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

EUPHEMISM definition: the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt. See examples of euphemism used in a sentence.

euphemism (for something) an indirect word or phrase that people often use to refer to something embarrassing or unpleasant, sometimes to make it seem more acceptable than it really is. …

A euphemism is a figure of speech, which means "an expression in which the words are not used in their literal sense." Therefore, euphemisms are classified as figurative language, which is …

eu•phe•mism (ˈyu fəˌmɪz əm) n. 1. the substitution of a mild or indirect expression for one thought to be offensive or blunt. 2. the expression so substituted: “To pass away” is a euphemism for …