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

Six years after a Kansas City Star investigation exposed problems including discrimination, sexism, retaliation and unequal opportunity within the Fire Department, the Urban Summit on Friday put KCFD in the hot seat. — Kansas City Star, 9 Oct. 2026

Kingsolver makes this a more complicated notion by gradually revealing Livia’s secrets as well as her mother’s, and the two characters’ interactions exist in a realm beyond a simple critique driven by rural sexism or small-mindedness. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026

Their characters contended with sexism, inflexible schedules, unequal pay and the near impossibility of balancing work with responsibilities at home. — Arkansas Online, 23 Sep. 2026

Ted, naturally, advises everyone to stay positive, but the outlook isn’t great, and it’s not helped by the team doctor dragging his feet about seeing the Greyhounds star, which Keeley immediately clocks as sexism. — Keith Phipps, Vulture, 23 Sep. 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