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

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

Looking on inside the Hammersmith Apollo theater in London was Spain teammate Jenni Hermoso, who has spearheaded the fight against sexism in women's soccer in Spain. —Ken Maguire, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2024

But sexism alone may not explain the stubborn gender tenure gap. —Lila MacLellan, Fortune, 20 Feb. 2024

When the forces of sexism land on Barbie, Robbie’s face crumbles beneath the weight of epiphany. —Wesley Morris, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2024

While the leadership change poses a challenge and once again focuses attention on sexism within the WWE, which the organization has tried to combat, some professional wrestling insiders and academics who study the industry see this moment as an opportunity for the company. —Tyler Kingkade, NBC News, 1 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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