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general::
Phrase(s): a dirty word
1. a swearword; an obscene or blasphemous word; a four-letter word. • You are not allowed to use dirty words in your school essays. • My aunt is offended by the use of dirty words. 2. something that is disliked or disapproved of. • Since Tom broke off his engagement, his name is a dirty word in the village. • Socialism is a dirty word in that house.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs