dysphemism
/ˈdɪsfəˌmɪzəm/
noun
- A word or phrase that is intentionally harsh, offensive, or negative, used instead of a neutral or polite term.
- In his speech, he used a dysphemism for the opposing team, calling them 'the losers'.
- Calling a cemetery a 'dead zone' is a dysphemism.
- Some people use dysphemisms to show anger or disrespect.
Antonyms