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

Some argue the punishment of Bonaly back then and praise of Malinin today underscores a double standard that still exists in the figure skating world. —Fernanda Figueroa, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026

Advocates for Nordic combined say that the scrutiny over the diversity of countries in the sport is a double standard, because European countries dominate many of the snow sports at the Winter Olympics. —Rebecca Tauber, New York Times, 9 Feb. 2026

The double standard is real, undeniable, with no apologies offered. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 9 Feb. 2026

My photographs—portraits, landscapes, still lives, and spaces both vast and claustrophobic—reveal cultural double standards and impermanence. —Literary Hub, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for double standard

• meandered
• nonstandard
• substandard
• slandered

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