English · Culture & Society
discrimination
/dɪˌskrɪm.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/
[/dɪˌskrɪm.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/]
unjust unequal treatment
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The unjust treatment of people based on group characteristics like race, sex, or age. It can also mean the ability to notice fine differences.
Example
Laws against discrimination make it illegal to refuse someone a job because of their religion.
Laws against discrimination make it illegal to refuse someone a job because of their religion.
Etymology
From Latin 'discriminatio' (a distinguishing), from 'discriminare' (to divide, distinguish).
How & Where It’s Used
Used in law, human rights, and social debate.