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.
Instead, Ballard is all about establishing its title character as a badass workaholic who refuses to bend to the department’s sexism and has faith in her teammates on the Cold Case Unit to give all their effort to their cause. Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 11 July 2025 Author Interviews How sexism and homophobia sidelined the National Women's Football League Irsay's three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt and Kalen Jackson — are all involved in the team, and each currently holds the title of vice chair/owner. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 22 May 2025 The podcast looks at business through a feminist lens and specifically discusses issues like maternity leave, sexism and gender roles in business. Rosa Escandon, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025 Newsweek Illustration/Canva/Getty A 2024 survey of women working in tech by Web Summit found that 50 percent of women reported experiencing sexism in the workplace, while half of women (49 percent) also feel pressured to choose between family and career. Aman Kidwai, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sexism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sexism. Accessed 7 Aug. 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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