What does slur mean?
A slur is a derogatory or insulting term, particularly one directed at someone because of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or another characteristic. As a verb, slur means to disparage or criticize someone in an offensive or unfairly hostile manner. The word carries a strong implication of contempt and can communicate not only an individual’s opinion but also the social and historical importance of the identity being attacked. Because slurs can be used to intimidate, dehumanize, or exclude people, discussing them requires care: a slur may need to be quoted in reporting, commentary, education, or discussions of language and discrimination. Outside these contexts, replacing it with a neutral description is usually preferable. The related verb is also used when someone makes sweeping, derogatory claims about a person, group, organization, or country.
An insulting or derogatory term, especially one directed at a person or group because of its race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or other identity.
"The organization called the phrase a harmful racial slur."
Strongly offensive; generally used only when referring to, quoting, or explaining the term.
To criticize, insult, or speak disparagingly about someone or something.
"The comedian was accused of slurring the performers she mocked."
Can describe any disparaging criticism, though it often conveys contempt or deliberate hostility.
The plural is used when referring to multiple insulting or derogatory terms.
"The campaign opposed racial and ethnic slurs."
A slur can wound not only through its words, but through the identity targeted by them.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slur come from?
The precise origin of the word is uncertain. It was established in its current insulting sense by the late nineteenth century, and its historical development may have been influenced by other words with similar spelling or pronunciation, but the exact source is not securely established.
How slur is actually used
The noun is strongly offensive and is normally appropriate only when quoting, reporting, or explicitly discussing offensive language. The verb can describe a wide range of disparaging speech, though it often suggests hostility or contempt.
Easily confused with slur
A slur is an offensive insult or disparaging term, whereas a slurp is the sound or act of drinking liquid noisily.