double standard

noun

1

: a set of principles that applies differently and usually more rigorously to one group of people or circumstances than to another

especially : a code of morals that applies more severe standards of sexual behavior to women than to men

2

: bimetallism

Examples of double standard in a Sentence

She argued that society applies a double standard in dealing with women who commit adultery.

Recent Examples on the Web

There is a double standard in the way their dynamic works. —Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 17 June 2025

That double standard, baked into permitting rules since the 1990s, declares that some lives merit protection while others do not. —Colin Walkes, Sun Sentinel, 11 June 2025

Attorney General Pam Bondi rejected that President Donald Trump's pardons for hundreds of rioters who assaulted police during the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol creates a double standard with the administration's aggressive response to violence at immigration protests in Los Angeles. —Alexander Mallin, ABC News, 11 June 2025

In his speech, Macron called out Beijing as holding a double standard on what is expected in Europe and what is expected in Asia. —Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 30 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for double standard

• meandered
• nonstandard
• substandard
• slandered

Kids Definition

double standard

noun

: a set of standards that applies differently and usually more harshly to one group of people or circumstances than to another