b-words

Noun

b-word (plural b-words)

1. (euphemistic) Any of various vulgar words beginning with the letter B, particularly bitch and bastard.
   • Although some women may casually use the term among friends or as a sign of empowerment, the b-word is still widely considered a particularly aggressive and demeaning insult when hurled at a woman, especially if it comes from a man.2016 June 16, Jenna Johnson, “Donald Trump Calls Her 'Crooked Hillary,' but His Fans Just Say 'B----'”, in Washington Post
2. (humorous, usually) Any word beginning with the letter B, considered (often humorously) to be taboo in its context.
   • After years of Labour downplaying the B-word [Brexit], it was a marked shift, drawing it into the framing of her tax and spending plans.2025 October 31, Richard Partington, “‘The money machine is misfiring’: City blames Brexit for UK’s £20bn productivity headache”, in The Guardian, →ISSN