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.
At the heart of that sexism is the belief that women simply aren’t strong enough to do a firefighter’s job. Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 18 Jan. 2025 Kate Beckinsale detailed her experiences of systemic Hollywood sexism in a lengthy Instagram video, highlighting the machinations in place to silence women who dare to speak up about on-set assault or harassment. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 30 Dec. 2024 Yasmin, the heiress of a publishing empire, stumbles at her Pierpont & Co. post, buffeted by industry sexism, a dysfunctional family, her predatory father and low expectations about her abilities. Carole Horst, Variety, 14 Dec. 2024 There is so much sexism in the world, and so much unconscious bias about how women should act and look and be. Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 11 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sexism 

Word History

Etymology

sex entry 1 + -ism (as in racism)

First Known Use

1963, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sexism was in 1963

Dictionary Entries Near sexism

Cite this Entry

“Sexism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexism. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on sexism

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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