sexism

noun

sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsi-zəm 

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

ˈsek-sist 

adjective or noun

Examples of sexism in a Sentence

the problem of sexism in language

Recent Examples on the Web

Women in particular carry the brunt of it, juggling inequitable pay, workplace sexism, and a political environment that treats their rights like bargaining chips. —Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Aug. 2025

Islamophobia, sexism, xenophobia, homophobia, weight and body-type bias, ableism, ageism and every other form of discrimination and abuse also deserve the most serious forms of accountability. —Shaun Harper, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2025

During her trial, Knox was painted scarlet in a furor of sexism and nationalism, the victim of broad stereotypes against her country, her youth, and her gender. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 20 Aug. 2025

Walter Tevis, The Queen’s Gambit The book behind the Netflix hit, this novel follows a chess prodigy battling addiction, isolation, and sexism. —Mark Nevins, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sexism

• heterosexism

Kids Definition

sexism

noun

sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsiz-əm 

: 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

ˈsek-səst 

adjective or noun