double standard

noun

1

: a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another

especially : a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men

2

: bimetallism

Examples of double standard in a Sentence

She argued that society applies a double standard in dealing with women who commit adultery.

Recent Examples on the Web

Vaughn Hardenberg Westwood :: No double standard here! —Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2024

Miss Manners concedes that the double standard here is vexing. —Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 1 June 2024

Critics say the swap promotes a double standard since ads in Times Square regularly feature near-naked underwear models. —Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 13 May 2024

Instead, your May 3rd statement shows a dangerous double standard in dealing with the civil rights of Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims. —Andrew Sheeler, Sacramento Bee, 22 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

double standard

noun

: a set of standards that applies differently and usually more harshly to one group of people or circumstances than to another