dysphemism
|dys/phe/mism|
C2
/ˈdɪsfɪˌmɪzəm/
derogatory term
Etymology
Etymology Information
'dysphemism' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'dysphēmismos,' where 'dys-' meant 'bad' and 'phēmē' meant 'speech.'
Historical Evolution
'dysphēmismos' transformed into the English word 'dysphemism' through Latin.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'bad speech,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a derogatory term.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a derogatory or unpleasant term used instead of a pleasant or neutral one.
Using 'croak' as a dysphemism for 'die'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45