f-word
UK[ˈef wɜːd]US[ˈef wɜːrd]
n
A euphemism for the offensive swear word 'fuck'.
Etymology
The term 'f-word' is a modern English euphemism originating in the mid-20th century. It follows a common pattern of taboo avoidance by using the first letter of an offensive word combined with the generic term 'word'. This construction allows for the unambiguous reference to the profanity 'fuck' while mitigating its social impact. The logic is purely orthographic and social, creating a lexical placeholder that carries the concept without uttering the taboo itself. Its usage reflects ongoing linguistic taboos and the creative mechanisms of politeness in English.
Analysis
This is a euphemistic compound formed in modern English from the letter 'F' and the word 'word'. It functions as a lexicalized substitute for a taboo term.
Examples
The article was full of bleeps and references to the f-word.
He got in trouble for letting the f-word slip out during the live broadcast.
Parents often worry about their children picking up the f-word from movies.