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

Steinem also was an early supporter of Women’s Action Alliance, a group focused on combating sexism. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2026

The obvious and stated precursor to Daisy Chain Fields is the Gen X mainstay Lilith Fair, the touring festival of female artists sprung from Sarah McLachlan’s justified ire over sexism in the music industry. — Lauren Michele Jackson, New Yorker, 2 Sep. 2026

Good Good Golf faces mounting backlash for a controversial online video ad that sparked accusations of sexism. — Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026

Liberal commentators cheered while conservatives accused him of sexism. — Adam Beam, AJC.com, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 2

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