The term "deaths head" can be quite macabre, so it's no surprise that many people may prefer to use a more euphemistic or less intense synonym. Some possible options might include "skull," "bony visage," or "grim reaper." Alternatively, one could use more poetic or metaphorical language to describe the same concept, such as "the visage of mortality," "the emblem of passing," or "the harbinger of the great beyond." Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the context and tone of the writing in question, but with so many possible options, it's easy to find a word or phrase that captures the desired meaning without being overly morbid or unsettling.