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

This is not an argument for retaining Confederate monuments or prohibiting abstract art, but against a double standard. — Frank Porcu, New York Daily News, 20 Sep. 2026

Indeed, Font is well aware of the double standard that still exists for women trying to balance motherhood with a music career. — Tricia Despres, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2026

Since then, Hart’s continued to go topless in public and post topless photos, in part to draw attention to the nipple double standard. — Kara McGrath, Allure, 15 Sep. 2026

When the bro-country era featured songs about field parties, drinking and one-night stands, cultural double standards put women at a disadvantage. — Tom Roland, Billboard, 10 Sep. 2026

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