code word: Meaning and Definition of

code' word"

Pronunciation: [key]
  1. See
  2. a euphemistic or politically acceptable catchword or phrase used instead of a blunter or less acceptable term: The official report said the diplomats had a “frank and serious discussion”—code words for “angry argument.”
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.