English · Culture & Society
stereotype
/ˈster.i.ə.taɪp/
[/ˈster.i.ə.taɪp/]
oversimplified fixed image
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A widely held but oversimplified and often unfair idea about a type of person or thing. Stereotypes ignore individual differences.
Example
The show challenged the lazy stereotype that scientists are cold, humorless, and socially awkward.
The show challenged the lazy stereotype that scientists are cold, humorless, and socially awkward.
Etymology
From French 'stéréotype', from Greek 'stereos' (solid) and 'typos' (impression); originally a printing term.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in social, psychological, and media analysis.