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euphemism

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The definition of a euphemism is a polite, vague word or phrase that is used in place of word or phrase that might be considered offensive, harsh, unpleasant or inappropriate to say.

(noun)

An example of a euphemism is someone saying "passed away" instead of "died."

See euphemism in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the use of a word or phrase that is less expressive or direct but considered less distasteful, less offensive, etc. than another
a word or phrase so substituted (Ex.: remains for corpse)

Origin: Gr euphēmismos < euphēmizein, to use words of good omen < euphēmos, of good sound or omen < eu- (see eu-) + phēmē, speech< phanai, say: see ban

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See euphemism in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The act or an example of substituting a mild, indirect, or vague term for one considered harsh, blunt, or offensive: “Euphemisms such as ‘slumber room’ . . . abound in the funeral business” (Jessica Mitford).

Origin:

Origin: Greek euphēmismos

Origin: , from euphēmizein, to use auspicious words

Origin: , from euphēmiā, use of auspicious words

Origin: : eu-, eu-

Origin: + phēmē, speech; see bhā-² in Indo-European roots

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