Words / C1

EP-ith-et/ˈepɪθet/

An epithet is a word or short phrase used as a name or description, sometimes abusive: a tired epithet, hurl an epithet. Label is everyday; calling an empty night cell agile does not staff it.

Meaning

A word or short phrase used as a name or description, sometimes abusive.

Examples

• ““Agile” as an epithet for an empty night cell is still a hole.”
• “Label is everyday. Nickname is milder. Agile is a slogan. A gap on the grid is evidence. Staff the night, or close the sitting; do not baptise the hole as culture.”

Good to know

A descriptive (sometimes abusive) label. Everyday: label. “Agile” ≠ a staffed night.

Near in meaning

label, nickname, tag

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