WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
ˈcode ˌword, n. [countable]
  1. a word or phrase that has a different meaning from its apparent meaning, used to communicate something secretly.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026
code′ word′, 
    1. CryptographySee code name. 
    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.''
    • 1880–85

'codeword' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):
affirmative

Forum discussions with the word(s) "codeword" in the title:


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