discrimination
noun
Did you know?
Discriminating Among Meanings of Discrimination
Discrimination has senses with neutral, positive, and negative connotations. On the one hand, it can refer to "the act (or power) of distinguishing" or to "good taste, refinement." These meanings, sometimes reinforced with modifiers (as in a fine or a nice discrimination), stress an ability to perceive differences as an index of unusual intelligence. On the other hand, when the perception of difference is marked by invidious distinction or hostility, the word (often followed by against) takes on very negative overtones, as in the senses "act of discriminating categorically rather than individually" (discrimination against women, age discrimination) and "a prejudiced outlook or course of action" (racial discrimination). The original, neutral sense of discrimination, "the act of distinguishing," came into English by the early 17th century, followed by the positive one associated with superior discernment in the 18th century. Discrimination in the "prejudice" sense has been in use since the early 19th century, almost 200 years ago.
Examples of discrimination in a Sentence
Ted Ladd, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
Norris this year claimed that board members engaged in unlawful discrimination and retaliation against him, which the county denied, according to the settlement agreement.
—Jason Clayworth, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025
Limited guidance from courts Few cases have addressed claims of national origin discrimination for being American.
—Dan Eaton, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Mar. 2025
However, the high cost of raising children and workplace discrimination are frequently cited as key reasons why many Chinese women delay childbirth in favor of career advancement.
—William Lambers, Newsweek, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for discrimination
Cite this Entry
“Discrimination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discrimination. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
discrimination
noun
Medical Definition
discrimination
noun
Share