code word

noun

1. code name.
2. a euphemistic or politically acceptable catchword or phrase used instead of a blunter or less acceptable term:

   The official report said the diplomats had a “frank and serious discussion”—code words for “angry argument.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of code word¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The only way to get a glass was to order it using the secret code word, “tanqueta,” which translates as “small tank.”

From The Daily Beast

The message contained a line that jumped out, given that “wedding” is an al Qaeda code word for an attack dating back to 9/11.

From The Daily Beast

The rest left for France or “abroad,” he says, a Tunisian Jewry code word to avoid association with Israel.

From The Daily Beast

Peter perceived Romney's call for "stability" as code word for creeping annexation.

From The Daily Beast

She came up with a code word―“peace”―for her teacher if the abuse happened again, and she called the teacher and used the word.

From The Daily Beast

We will give you the code word, and we ask nothing in return but that you listen for sixty seconds.

From Project Gutenberg

A code word in his patter advertised to his confederates exactly whereabouts upon your person the treasure was carried.

From Project Gutenberg

"Stat" means emergency, that's just a code word that has been used for years in medical terms.

From Project Gutenberg

Dave glanced at the old man as he spoke the secret code word, but there was not so much as a flicker of the eyelids.

From Project Gutenberg

Snap had taken the code-word sheet, that time we sealed the purser in the cage.

From Project Gutenberg