Figure of Speech
Euphemism
From Greek euphemia: speaking well. A social lubricant in everyday language; in poetry often ironic (Swift) or a target of satirical exposure.
Definition
The substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one considered harsh, blunt, or taboo.
Example
'Passed away' for 'died'; 'collateral damage' for civilian casualties; 'between jobs' for unemployed.