# dysphemism

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈdɪs.fəˌmɪ.z(ə)m/

## Definitions
1. The use of a word or phrase carrying negative connotations or imagery (especially one that is derogatory, offensive or vulgar) to replace a (more) neutral original.
2. A word or phrase that is used to replace another in this way.

## Etymology
Borrowed from French dysphémisme, modelled after euphémisme, with the prefix dys-.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/dysphemism