code word
noun
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.”
Origin of code word
First recorded in 1880–85
Words nearby code word
code dating,
code flag,
code name,
code napoléon,
code of hammurabi,
code word,
code-name,
code-sharing,
code-switching,
codec,
codeclination
Example sentences from the Web for code word
Snap had taken the code-word sheet, that time we sealed the purser in the cage.
And it implied an urgency in the use of the code-word Mother.
Way of a Rebel |Walter M. MillerOnly he, apparently saw the minute widening of the admiral's eyes at that code-word.
Man of Many Minds |E. Everett Evans