Search Dictionary
Definition of euphemism

euphemism

/ˈjuːfəmɪzəm/
eu · phe · mism
Adverb:euphemistically
•
Plural:euphemisms
•
Adjective:euphemistic
JUMP TO:

euphemism Lexical Profile

euphemism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh, blunt, or offensive when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.

Example

"The phrase 'passed away' is a common euphemism for 'died'."

2

The rhetorical practice or habit of using mild, indirect, or evasive expressions in place of blunt or offensive ones.

Example

"Corporate communications often rely heavily on euphemism to soften the impact of mass layoffs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for euphemism
Antonyms
View all antonyms for euphemism

• Nearby Words

eunuch
euonymus
eupatorium
euphemism
euphemistic
euphemistically
euphonia

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Ancient Greek 'euphēmismos', meaning the use of auspicious or favorable words, derived from 'eu-' (good, well) and 'phēmē' (speech, voice).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Euphemism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/euphemism
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.