sexism
noun
sex·ism
ˈsek-ˌsi-zəm 
1
: prejudice or discrimination based on sex
especially
: discrimination against women
2
: behavior, conditions, or attitudes that foster stereotypes of social roles based on sex
Examples of sexism in a Sentence
the problem of sexism in language
Recent Examples on the Web
Walter Tevis, The Queen’s Gambit The book behind the Netflix hit, this novel follows a chess prodigy battling addiction, isolation, and sexism.
—
Mark Nevins, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025
Many of the online responses that have been so disappointing are, unsurprisingly, rooted in misogynoir — a form of misogyny directed specifically at Black women, shaped by both anti-Blackness and sexism.
—Susan Akyeampong, Refinery29, 16 May 2025
Instead, Ballard is all about establishing its title character as a badass workaholic who refuses to bend to the department’s sexism and has faith in her teammates on the Cold Case Unit to give all their effort to their cause.
—Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 11 July 2025
Author Interviews How sexism and homophobia sidelined the National Women's Football League
Irsay's three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson — are all involved in the team, and each currently holds the title of vice chair/owner.
—Rachel Treisman, NPR, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for sexism
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Mark Nevins, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2025
Many of the online responses that have been so disappointing are, unsurprisingly, rooted in misogynoir — a form of misogyny directed specifically at Black women, shaped by both anti-Blackness and sexism.
—Susan Akyeampong, Refinery29, 16 May 2025
Instead, Ballard is all about establishing its title character as a badass workaholic who refuses to bend to the department’s sexism and has faith in her teammates on the Cold Case Unit to give all their effort to their cause.
—Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 11 July 2025
Author Interviews How sexism and homophobia sidelined the National Women's Football League
Irsay's three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson — are all involved in the team, and each currently holds the title of vice chair/owner.
—Rachel Treisman, NPR, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for sexism
Cite this Entry
“Sexism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexism. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
sexism
noun
sex·ism
ˈsek-ˌsiz-əm
: distinction and especially unjust distinction based on sex and made against one person or group in favor of another
especially
: distinctions made against women
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