sexism

noun

sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce sexism (audio)
1
: prejudice or discrimination based on sex
especially : discrimination against women
2
: behavior, conditions, or attitudes that foster stereotypes of social roles based on sex
sexist adjective or noun

Examples of sexism in a Sentence

the problem of sexism in language
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Multiple researchers found that hostile sexism, which encompasses perceptions that women’s advancement comes at a cost to men, was a significant predictor of votes for Donald Trump among men and women alike. Kelly Dittmar, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 Brazil’s lack of political representation can’t be explained simply by sexism. Constance Malleret, The Christian Science Monitor, 3 Oct. 2024 Many in Democratic circles questioned the wisdom of Barack Obama calling out Black men for being lukewarm on Harris out of latent sexism. Philip Eliott / Detroit, TIME, 4 Nov. 2024 This has been complicated by high costs of livings dampening enthusiasm and quite likely some latent sexism in parts of that coalition. David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sexism 

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sexism was in 1963

Dictionary Entries Near sexism

Cite this Entry

“Sexism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexism. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sexism

noun
sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce sexism (audio)
: distinction and especially unjust distinction based on sex and made against one person or group in favor of another
especially : distinctions made against women
sexist adjective or noun

More from Merriam-Webster on sexism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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