Minced or not, they aren't particularly nice (5)
I believe the answer is:
oaths
I'm afraid I can't explain this answer.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for oaths that I've seen before include "Swear words" , "Curses - words of honour?" , "professions of loyalty" , "truths may be established by them" , "Solemn sworn promises" .)