intersectionality

noun

in·​ter·​sec·​tion·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-tər-ˌsek-shə-ˈna-lə-tē How to pronounce intersectionality (audio)
: 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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Study of intersectionality, noted in depth in the April draft, was scaled back significantly before the final release. Nick Anderson, Washington Post, 19 Feb. 2023 Following those discussions, intersectionality gradually faded from the course. Stephanie Saul, New York Times, 13 Feb. 2023 In the final version, intersectionality is included only as an example of a possible project that a student might choose. Laura Meckler, Anchorage Daily News, 10 Feb. 2023 In the final version, intersectionality is included only as an example of a possible project that a student might choose. Laura Meckler, BostonGlobe.com, 10 Feb. 2023 In the final version, intersectionality is included only as an example of a possible project that a student might choose. Laura Meckler, Washington Post, 9 Feb. 2023 Leverage their talents: Our BRGs advance business priorities, acknowledge intersectionality, and engage with employees at every stage of the employee lifecycle. Carrie Oman, Quartz, 6 Feb. 2023 Creating employee resource groups or networks that emphasize intersectionality and support all marginalized groups is another, vital way to demonstrate allyship. Adrien Gaubert, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2023 Type 2 diabetes must be solved through universal healthcare; the opioid epidemic must be tackled by destigmatizing drug use; and ethnic studies classes include body size on the society-blaming intersectionality pyramid. WSJ, 31 Jan. 2023 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'intersectionality.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intersectionality was in 1989

Dictionary Entries Near intersectionality

Cite this Entry

“Intersectionality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intersectionality. Accessed 20 Mar. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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