What does bigotry mean?
Bigotry is the state of being bigoted: an obstinate, unreasoning attachment to one's own opinions, beliefs, or group identity, coupled with intolerance and often contempt for those who differ. The word carries strong negative connotations and is typically used to condemn attitudes rather than describe them neutrally. Speakers most often invoke bigotry in discussions of religion, race, ethnicity, sexuality, and politics — phrases such as 'religious bigotry' and 'racial bigotry' are common — and its force lies in suggesting not just a mistaken view but a closed mind unwilling to engage with evidence or other perspectives. Because of this severity, calling someone's conduct bigotry is a serious accusation, generally reserved for sustained or flagrant intolerance rather than mere disagreement. The term is standard in both British and American English, appears frequently in journalism, law, and public debate, and derives from 'bigot', a word of disputed French origin dating back to the Middle Ages. Understanding bigotry matters because it names a specific failure of intellectual humility that societies continue to grapple with.
nounObstinate and intolerant attachment to one's own opinions or beliefs, especially accompanied by prejudice against and contempt for those who hold different views.
- Stubborn, unreasoning devotion to one's own opinions or party, combined with intolerance of opposing views.
- Prejudiced hostility or discrimination directed at people of a particular group, religion, race, or belief.
"The report condemned the bigotry that had long been directed at immigrants in the region."
"She refused to tolerate bigotry in the workplace and filed a formal complaint."
"The novel portrays a small town slowly shedding the bigotry that had divided its communities for generations."
The plural 'bigotries' is relatively rare but correct, typically referring to multiple distinct instances or varieties of prejudiced intolerance.
"The commission catalogued the bigotries that had shaped the town's history."
"Bigot" was reportedly the name mockingly given to the Viscount of L'Isle-Adam in medieval France — and the insult stuck so well it became a word for anyone who won't budge from their prejudices.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bigotry
The word bigotry derives from 'bigot', which appeared in Middle French by the twelfth century as a term of abuse, allegedly applied to the Normans and later to religious zealots. Its further origin is uncertain — suggested sources include Old French 'bi got' (said to mean 'by God'), a Germanic personal name, or an English borrowing — so etymologists treat the ultimate derivation as unresolved. By the late sixteenth century 'bigot' was established in English meaning a superstitious zealot or hypocrite, and 'bigotry' followed shortly after, broadening from religious fanaticism to obstinate intolerance of any kind.
Related word forms
How bigotry is actually used
Bigotry is a strongly negative word carrying moral condemnation; it is more severe than 'prejudice' or 'bias', implying both rigidity of mind and active intolerance. It is common in formal writing, journalism, and public discourse on religion, race, and politics.
Easily confused with bigotry
Prejudice is a preconceived attitude, often negative, formed without sufficient knowledge, whereas bigotry implies holding such attitudes stubbornly and acting on them with intolerance toward differing views.
Bias is any inclination or leaning, conscious or unconscious, while bigotry denotes rigid, unreasoning intolerance that refuses to consider other viewpoints at all.