intersectionality

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-tər-ˌsek-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

: the complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect especially in the experiences of marginalized individuals or groups

[Kimberlé] Crenshaw introduced the theory of intersectionality, the idea that when it comes to thinking about how inequalities persist, categories like gender, race, and class are best understood as overlapping and mutually constitutive rather than isolated and distinct.

—Adia Harvey Wingfield

Examples of intersectionality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Those who dismissed intersectionality saw such policies as little more than allowing the disadvantaged to commit crimes without consequences to make up for past inequities, afflicting crime victims from the same disadvantaged communities. —John Scott Lewinski, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025

This issue of intersectionality requires further urgent attention. —Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025

In the years since Uribe broke out, he’s become one of its most vocal advocates for inclusivity and a shining example of the importance of intersectionality. —José Criales-Unzueta, Vogue, 25 June 2025

The study also brought in the issue of intersectionality, noting that LGBTQ+ characters were twice as likely to be portrayed with disabilities than characters outside that community, with 8.5% of LGBTQ+ characters shown with disabilities. —Matt Minton, Variety, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for intersectionality

• confidentiality
• constitutionality
• immateriality
• individuality
• intellectuality
• intertextuality
• referentiality
• superficiality
• territoriality
• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality