the – word

1 used euphemistically to replace a taboo word beginning with the specified letter (e.g. the f-word for fuck).

2 used ironically to replace a word, beginning with the stated letter, denoting something despised or deplored (e.g. the l-word for liberal).

❶ 2005 Nick HornbyA Long Way Down If I'd known what Maureen was like, then I would have toned it down a bit, probably, but I didn't; I think I might even have used the c-word, for which I've apologized.

❷ 2005Courier-Mail (Brisbane) The f-word-feminism-is tossed around like a worn old sock as the audience tried to fathom how the movement's desire for women to be sexually fulfilled has morphed into a push to simply be sexy.