slur
Slur (noun) means an offensive or insulting remark, especially one targeting a person's group identity. Example: “The player was suspended after using a racial slur on the field.”
How to use slur
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither an offensive insult aimed at a group, or speech that runs together unclearly.
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.
Word forms
slurred past tense, slurs plural, slurs singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The player was suspended after using a racial _____ on the field.
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.
Related words
Rhymes for slur
See all rhymes for 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.