A celebrity photographer wants to make “paparazzo” a four-letter word during his upcoming civil trial against Keanu Reeves.

Attorneys for Alison Silva contend the words “paparazzo” and “paparazzi” are derogatory and would unfairly prejudice jurors against him. Silva is suing Reeves, claiming the actor caused him to fall while he was taking pictures of the “Matrix” star in his car in March 2007.

Silva’s lawyers want him identified as a “photojournalist” or “reporter” when the case goes to trial later this month.

Reeves’ attorneys counter in documents filed in Los Angeles on Thursday that Silva has repeatedly identified himself as a “paparazzo” in interviews and on his Web site.

A judge will consider how to label Silva during a hearing next week.