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 Then, as now, sexism did exist, but there is no documentation or evidence suggesting Rodin did anything to thwart her career. Jordan Riefe, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Apr. 2024 And that sentiment interacts with South Korea's slowing economy and historic sexism, according to Evans. Se Eun Gong, NPR, 10 Apr. 2024 The show also delved into the sexism accusations against producer Dan Schneider made by female writers on The Amanda Show. Nicole Acosta, Peoplemag, 8 Apr. 2024 For example, activist hedge funds have been found to disproportionately target women CEOs, and some experts believe that women leaders who face relentless sexism voluntarily step down. Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 21 Feb. 2024 In an era rife with sexism, adding PMDD to the DSM set off alarm bells. Shalene Gupta, TIME, 4 Apr. 2024 Musk has been profoundly critical of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts and has been called out for sexism repeatedly over the years. William Gavin, Quartz, 7 Mar. 2024 Wall Street Journal Women are more unhappy in their jobs than their male colleagues, citing sexism and workplaces that are still designed for men. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 27 Mar. 2024 Holding open the door or giving up a seat on the train or bus is more common outside of the States, where it might be viewed as a form of sexism. Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes, 27 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sexism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 2 May. 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

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