slur
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for slur, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An offensive or insulting remark, especially one targeting a person's group identity.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use slur
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
As an insult, "slur" (especially "racial slur" or "ethnic slur") refers to genuinely offensive language and should be used carefully, typically only when discussing the topic rather than repeating the term itself.
Etymology
From an old word for thin, fluid mud — the idea of things running together messily gave rise to both "slurred speech" and "slur" as an insult that stains someone's reputation.
Full origin of slur →Frequently asked questions
What does “slur” mean?
The word “slur” means an offensive or insulting remark, especially one targeting a person's group identity. In plain terms, either an offensive insult aimed at a group, or speech that runs together unclearly.
How do you pronounce “slur”?
“Slur” is pronounced slur (/slɜɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “slur” in a sentence?
Here is “slur” used in a sentence: “The player was suspended after using a racial slur on the field.”
What part of speech is “slur”?
Depending on how it is used, “slur” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “slur” have?
“Slur” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an offensive or insulting remark, especially one targeting a person's group identity.