basement Betty n.— «Gibson could face up to a $20,000 fine for being a “basement Betty,” a euphemism for unlicensed hairstylists. Basement Betties are generally only investigated and fined following complaints.» —“Barber...
sleep out v. phr.— «Many homeless prefer “sleeping out,” as the euphemism goes, to staying in a cramped, noisy, and sometimes smelly shelter.» —“The Plan to Nowhere?” by Philip Dawdy Seattle...
starlight tour n.— «By the time a cop offers Stryker a “starlight tour”—the euphemism for a beating and a drive so far from town that you could freeze to death before you stumble back—the anxiety levels are overwhelming...
catch a case v. phr.— «“I kept telling him, ‘You’re going to catch a case,’” a prison-system euphemism for being written up for an infraction.» —“Recovery” by Nancy Martinez in Mathis Caller...
eat rats v.— «The presenter, Khabilutsi Wotana, insisted that “Okhulia tsimbeba”—literally translated as “eating rats” (euphemism for adultery), could lead to a woman getting divorced.» —“Time for Song And...
barbecue n.— «Weston claims Norgen then discussed “barbecuing,” a euphemism for sex.» —“How to: Avoid sex discrimination” by Louise Armistead Times (London, England) July 18, 2004. (source:...