Polite term (9)
I believe the answer is:
euphemism
'polite term' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for euphemism that I've seen before include "sugar?" , "Mild term substituted for one less acceptable" , "Replacement for a term of abuse?" , "Harmless substitute for offensive term" , "Word used instead of something more unpleasant" .)