epithet

/ˈepɪθet/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈepɪθet/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈe-pə-ˌthet also -thət/ (ame, mw)

epithet — noun

  • epithetsingular
  • epithetsplural

1. a descriptive label or set phrase linked to someone or something, or replacing t

1.名詞C2
釋義

a descriptive label or set phrase linked to someone or something, or replacing the usual name, to highlight a notable quality, whether approvingly or critically.

例句

Classmates jokingly called Brian "the walking dictionary," an epithet he secretly enjoyed.

call + someone + epithet

In the article, the mayor earned the epithet "the river guardian" after the flood.

同義詞
  • sobriquet

    usually refers to a memorable nickname for a person and often sounds more literary.

  • nickname

    more everyday and often affectionate, without the evaluative force of epithet.

  • designation

    more formal and neutral, often used for official labels rather than expressive ones.

文法句型

an epithet

give + someone/something + an epithet

用法筆記

Often found in history, literature, or formal commentary, where the label sums up a striking trait. Unlike an ordinary nickname, it usually carries praise or criticism rather than simple familiarity.

2. an insulting word or short expression aimed at a person or a group.

2.名詞C2
釋義

an insulting word or short expression aimed at a person or a group.

例句

The referee stopped the match after a fan shouted a racial epithet.

racial epithet

Jessica left the chat when strangers kept throwing epithets at her brother.

throw epithets at

同義詞
  • slur

    specifically emphasizes insulting language, especially against a social group.

  • insult

    broader everyday word that can refer to actions as well as words.

  • abuse

    can refer to harsh or offensive speech in general, not only a label.

文法句型

an epithet

hurl an epithet at + noun phrase

用法筆記

Common in reporting about prejudice, abuse, or political conflict. Distinguish from sense 1: this sense is plainly abusive, not a descriptive title that may be admiring or critical.