sexism

noun

sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce sexism (audio)
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
sexist adjective or noun

Examples of sexism in a Sentence

the problem of sexism in language
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their perspectives should be central to the story, and Theroux’s even inadvertent sidelining of their experiences underscore a deeper issue facing the accurate portrayal of sexism and gender dynamics in documentaries. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 19 Mar. 2026 Kalanick was pushed out of the global ride-hailing company in 2017 over reports of rampant workplace-culture issues around sexism, violations of privacy and misogyny. Paul Flahive, Austin American Statesman, 17 Mar. 2026 The case back then also involved the bodies of naked, mutilated women, plus all the sexism and homophobia that were pervasive in police work in 1998 and are apparently ship-shape today. Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026 This is also a production which tries to address the gender imbalance and sexism which upset the play’s balance if not well handled. Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sexism

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of sexism was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“Sexism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexism. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

sexism

noun
sex·​ism ˈsek-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce sexism (audio)
: distinction and especially unjust distinction based on sex and made against one person or group in favor of another
especially : distinctions made against women
sexist adjective or noun

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