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dirty word

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dirty word

A word, phrase, or concept considered taboo or that is no longer approved of; something that has the potential to cause the same offense that an obscenity would. Ever since Jason won the lottery, he considers "work" to be a dirty word. When it comes to politics, "tax increases" might as well be a dirty word.

See also: dirty, word

dirty word

 

1. a swearword; an obscene or blasphemous word; a four-letter word. You are not allowed to use dirty words in your school essays. My aunt is offended by the use of dirty words.

2. something that is disliked or disapproved of. Since Tom broke off his engagement, his name is a dirty word in the village. Socialism is a dirty word in that house.

See also: dirty, word

dirty word

n. a curse word; an informal word concerned with sex or excrement. Some kid got the microphone and yelled a dirty word into it.

See also: dirty, word