equality

noun

equal·​i·​ty i-ˈkwä-lə-tē How to pronounce equality (audio)
plural equalities
Synonyms of equality
1
: the quality or state of being equal
2

Examples of equality in a Sentence

the ideals of liberty and equality it's absurd to suggest that there's an equality in the evil committed by the Nazis and the crimes of the government of that Asian country
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Small businesses navigate a complex market, often hindered by the digital divide, which impacts growth and community equality. Dawn Thilmany, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 Yet the South soon got up off its feet and reasserted the plantation ethos, while the North surrendered the cause of racial equality in the name of national reconciliation. James Traub, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026 So, a constitutional guarantee of equality for women is still nonexistent. Martha Teichner, CBS News, 28 June 2026 In April, the EU’s highest court ruled that Orbán-era legislation from 2021 that banned the availability of LGBTQ+ content to minors violates EU law and breaches a foundational treaty guaranteeing respect for human rights and equality. Justin Spike, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for equality

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of equality was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Equality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equality. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

equality

noun
equal·​i·​ty i-ˈkwäl-ət-ē How to pronounce equality (audio)
plural equalities
: the quality, fact, or state of being equal

Legal Definition

equality

noun
equal·​i·​ty
: the quality or state of being equal: as
a
: sameness or equivalence in number, quantity, or measure
b
: likeness or sameness in quality, power, status, or degree

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