euphemism

noun

Definition of euphemismnext
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.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of euphemism Willmett and Harris are clearly uninterested in euphemisms, so there’s an exaggerated naivety to their lyrics. — Alex Robert Ross, Pitchfork, 8 June 2026 The most expensive queries are throttled or downgraded, which is usually a euphemism for a degraded user experience. — Ben Gutkovich, Forbes.com, 21 May 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for euphemism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for euphemism
  1. metaphor
  2. phrase
  3. term
Noun
  • In verse 5 the central metaphor changes from shepherd to host.
    — Frannie Comstock, Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 Aug. 2026
  • And maybe that is the perfect metaphor for football in Florida in 2026.
    — Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of metaphor
Noun
  • Almost exactly one month later, the phrase appeared as a central QAnon concept.
    — Matthew N. Hannah, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026
  • The phrase first surfaced in early 2024 and has grown in popularity since, according to Know Your Meme.
    — Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of phrase
Noun
  • Simply put, acknowledging the reality—even if the administration won’t state it in these terms—of avoiding a further, major military campaign as the conflict drags on.
    — Hamidreza Azizi, Time, 29 Aug. 2026
  • In relationships, the informal term refers to spouses who remain together while reducing their emotional effort, communication or involvement in the relationship.
    — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of term

Browse Nearby Words

eupeptic
euphemism
euphemisms
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Cite this Entry

“Euphemism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/euphemism. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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