Definition
Coded language that conveys controversial messages to specific groups while maintaining plausible deniability to the general public. Like actual dog whistles, the intended audience hears something others don't.
Example Usage
Phrases like 'law and order' and 'states' rights' have been analyzed as dog whistles with racial subtexts.
Origin
Political usage emerged in Australian politics in the 1990s, gaining prominence in American discourse in the 2000s.
Fun Fact
Researchers have documented how dog whistles allow politicians to simultaneously appeal to prejudiced voters while maintaining mainstream credibility—saying different things to different audiences using the same words.
Source: Political communication and media studies terminology
Related Terms
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See “dog whistle politics” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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