favoritism

noun

fa·​vor·​it·​ism ˈfā-v(ə-)rə-ˌti-zəm 

ˈfā-vər-

1

: the showing of special favor : partiality

2

: the state or fact of being a favorite

Examples of favoritism in a Sentence

He accused the teacher of showing favoritism in assigning grades.

Recent Examples on the Web

If everyone were to showcase the Emmys, that would also eliminate any concerns about favoritism. —Michael Schneider, Variety, 5 Sep. 2025

Many of the episodes released so far have addressed Chase's sobriety struggles, as well as Harvey's favoritism of him over his other grandchildren. —Dory Jackson, People.com, 3 Sep. 2025

And subordinate-superior relationships raise the risk of real and perceived favoritism. —Kim Elsesser, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025

Fort Worth council member Chris Nettles alleged favoritism and called for Garcia to be withdrawn from contention. —Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for favoritism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism

Kids Definition

favoritism

noun

fa·​vor·​it·​ism ˈfāv-(ə-)rət-ˌiz-əm 

: unfairly favorable treatment of some while neglecting others