What does misogynistic mean?
Misogynistic means characterized by prejudice, hostility, or discrimination directed against women. The word is commonly used to describe insults or stereotypes, abusive treatment, discriminatory policies, and broader social attitudes that treat women as inferior or grant men special authority. It is more explicitly accusatory than the broader term “sexist,” though the two words overlap considerably. In discussions of literature, media, workplace culture, politics, and gender-based violence, “misogynistic” identifies a recurring pattern of attitudes or practices rather than merely an isolated disagreement with a woman. The term can also describe institutions or systems when their policies and practices systematically disadvantage women. Because of its strong negative connotation, it is generally reserved for clear examples of prejudice or discrimination rather than ordinary disagreement or criticism.
adjectiveShowing or expressing prejudice, hostility, or discrimination against women. The term describes attitudes, behaviour, or systems that privilege men or regard women as inferior.
- Exhibiting or expressing prejudice, discrimination, or hostility toward women.
"The advertisement was criticized for its overtly misogynistic portrayal of women."
"The novel criticizes the misogynistic language used by several characters."
"Her presentation addressed the misogynistic assumptions embedded in workplace culture."
A word for a deeply familiar problem: calling women less capable, less valuable, or less human.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does misogynistic come from?
The word is formed through English derivatives of Greek roots meaning “hatred” and “woman.” “Misogyny” and “misogynist” were established in English during the 19th century, and “misogynistic” developed as an adjective associated with them. The root combination also underlies cognate terms in other European languages, although its precise history and first attestation are less certain than its Greek components.
Related word forms
How misogynistic is actually used
This is a strong and generally formal term. It can describe individual behaviour, broader social attitudes, institutions, systems, and cultural practices, and is especially common in discussion of sexism, gender-based violence, and discrimination.
Easily confused with misogynistic
“Misogynous” means hostile or prejudicial toward women, while “misogynistic” more commonly describes an attitude, belief, or piece of language that expresses such prejudice.
“Misandrist” refers to hostility or prejudice against men, whereas “misogynistic” refers to prejudice against women.