Sexism
/ˈsɛksɪzəm/
Definitions
Prejudice, stereotyping, or discrimination, typically against women, on the basis of sex.
/ˈsɛksɪzəm/
Discrimination or prejudice based on sex.
Sexism in the workplace can lead to unequal pay and fewer opportunities for women.
💡 Simply: Imagine your school is deciding which kids get to play in a game. If they only let the boys play because they think girls are bad at sports, that's sexism. It's unfair treatment just because of what you are, a boy or a girl.
👶 For kids: Treating someone unfairly just because they are a boy or a girl.
More Examples
The company's policies were criticized for perpetuating sexism.
Many advertisements are criticized for their sexist portrayal of women.
How It's Used
"Sexism remains a significant issue in many workplaces, hindering women's advancement."
"The politician was accused of sexism after making insensitive comments about his opponent."
"The media's portrayal of women often reinforces societal sexism."
Idioms & expressions
benevolent sexism
A form of sexism characterized by seemingly positive, but ultimately patronizing, attitudes towards women.
"Benevolent sexism, such as praising women for their supposed nurturing qualities, can still limit their opportunities."
hostile sexism
Outright negative and antagonistic attitudes toward women.
"Hostile sexism is evident in open expressions of dislike and hatred toward women."
From 'sex' (referring to biological sex) + '-ism' (denoting a system, doctrine, or practice). The term emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s during the feminist movement to describe discrimination based on sex.
The term emerged during the second-wave feminist movement in the late 1960s to describe and combat discrimination against women.
Memory tip
Think of 'sex' + 'ism' – a system of unfair treatment based on sex. Like when people judge your abilities based on if you're a boy or a girl.
Practice
Word Origin
Suffix: -ism (denoting a system, doctrine, or practice)