dirty word

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

More than 100 days into Ms. Rodríguez’s new job, freedom is still a dirty word for the government.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

"I know there are many who use 'socialist' as a dirty word, something to be ashamed of," the 34-year-old told a packed room in Queens.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Brian Stelter, CNN's chief media analyst, recently tweeted that “fact-check” had become a dirty word.

From Salon • Jan. 26, 2025

According to Mr Martin: "Regulation was a dirty word."

From BBC • Aug. 31, 2024

Tradition can be a dirty word, especially around Christmas.

From "I Am the Messenger" by Markus Zusak