euphemize

[ yoo-fuh-mahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, eu·phe·mized, eu·phe·miz·ing.

1. to refer to by means of euphemism.

verb (used without object)

, eu·phe·mized, eu·phe·miz·ing.

1. to employ euphemism.

euphemize

/ ˈjuːfɪˌmaɪz /

verb

1. to speak in euphemisms or refer to by means of a euphemism

Derived Forms

• ˈeupheˌmizer, noun

Other Words From

• euphe·mi·zation noun
• euphe·mizer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of euphemize¹

First recorded in 1855–60, euphemize is from the Greek word euphēmízein to use words of good omen. See euphemism, -ize

Example Sentences

That was the American form that we kind of euphemized as slavery.

From Salon

Later, their sad parts were endlessly euphemized until they could be mistaken for happy endings.

From Los Angeles Times

That changing landscape and the dwindling opportunities therein, whether euphemized as “luxury development,” “slum clearance” or “vintage micro-units,” served as a catalyst for filmmaker A.V.

From Los Angeles Times

Even the most horrific stories of “vis” have been euphemized in translation.

From Washington Post

The April 30 Free for All letter “Stop euphemizing abortions” succinctly laid out and rationalized the writer’s beliefs and concerns about abortion as well as other issues.

From Washington Post