Epithet (noun)

A word or phrase applied to a person or thing to describe an actual or attributed quality, typically a negative one.

Origin:

Late 16th century: via latin from greek epitheton "appellation, addition", from epitithenai "add", from epi "on" + tithenai "to place".

Examples:

1. He was known by the epithet 'The Great' due to his military conquests.
2. The insult 'liar' became a permanent epithet for the politician.
3. Racism and sexism are often used as epithets to put down individuals.
4. The epithet 'old man' was used to express disdain for the elderly man.
5. Epithets can sometimes be used as a way to dehumanize others and diminish their dignity.