What does sexism mean?
Sexism refers to prejudice, discrimination, and stereotyping based on a person's sex or gender, with particular attention to the unequal treatment and representation of women. It may appear in obvious forms, such as derogatory remarks or unequal hiring, and in less visible forms, such as workplace expectations, institutional practices, or stereotypes that limit people's opportunities. The term is commonly paired with words such as systemic and overt to distinguish between deeply embedded and explicit forms of discrimination. Because sexism can operate through ordinary language and established social conventions, it is not limited to overtly hostile conduct. In discussion of public life, media, education, and the workplace, the word is useful for identifying patterns of unequal treatment whose individual instances may otherwise appear unremarkable. It is generally used as an uncountable noun and is recognized internationally in public vocabulary and public life.
nounPrejudice, discrimination, or stereotyping based on a person's sex or gender, especially the unequal treatment of women. It may occur through individual actions or through practices embedded in social, political, and economic institutions.
- Prejudice, discrimination, or stereotyping based on a person's sex or gender, especially unequal treatment of women.
"The report documented widespread sexism in the workplace and in access to leadership positions."
"She challenged the sexist assumptions behind the company's promotion policy."
"The campaign aims to expose everyday sexism as well as discrimination in institutions."
The plural exists but is uncommon; “sexism” is normally used in the singular or as an uncountable noun.
"The review identified several subtle sexisms in the advertisement."
The word “sexism” emerged in the late 1960s as part of a broader language that exposed unequal treatment by naming it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sexism come from?
The word is a combination of “sex” and the suffix “-ism,” a pattern used to form names of doctrines, conditions, or systems of prejudice. “Sex” ultimately derives from Latin sexus, while “sexism” is a modern formation that emerged in the late 1960s. Its development reflected the increasing recognition and public naming of sex-based discrimination.
Related word forms
How sexism is actually used
Usually uncountable and used in both formal and informal contexts. It can describe individual prejudice, discriminatory practices, or structural inequalities affecting people according to sex or gender.
Easily confused with sexism
Sexism is prejudice or discrimination based on sex or gender, whereas misogyny specifically means hostility or prejudice toward women.