Definition of DISCRIMINATION (original) (raw)
1
b
: the act, practice, or an instance of discriminating categorically rather than individually
2
: the quality or power of finely distinguishing
the film viewed by those with discrimination
3
a
: the act of making or perceiving a difference : the act of discriminating
a bloodhound's scent discrimination
b
psychology : the process by which two stimuli differing in some aspect are responded to differently
discriminational
adjective
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Discrimination has senses with neutral, positive, and negative connotations. On the one hand, it can refer to "the act (or power) of distinguishing" or to "good taste, refinement." These meanings, sometimes reinforced with modifiers (as in a fine or a nice discrimination), stress an ability to perceive differences as an index of unusual intelligence. On the other hand, when the perception of difference is marked by invidious distinction or hostility, the word (often followed by against) takes on very negative overtones, as in the senses "act of discriminating categorically rather than individually" (discrimination against women, age discrimination) and "a prejudiced outlook or course of action" (racial discrimination). The original, neutral sense of discrimination, "the act of distinguishing," came into English by the early 17th century, followed by the positive one associated with superior discernment in the 18th century. Discrimination in the "prejudice" sense has been in use since the early 19th century, almost 200 years ago.
Synonyms
Choose the Right Synonym for discrimination
the discernment to know true friends
discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent.
the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music
perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).
a novelist of keen perception into human motives
penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.
lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles
insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.
a documentary providing insight into the plight of people affected by the housing crisis
acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.
a director of reliable box-office acumen
Examples of discrimination in a Sentence
The law prohibits discrimination in hiring. He sued the company for age discrimination. the animal's impressive scent discrimination
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.
Civil rights and pro-equality groups argue the programs are necessary to correct discrimination in a country where women and African Americans did not achieve legal equality until the 20th century and continue to lag behind their white male counterparts in pay and opportunities. —
Daniel Trotta, USA TODAY, 4 Feb. 2025 The smallest of all Cabinet agencies, the Department of Education is responsible for distribution of federal financial aid for education, collecting and disseminating data and research related to schools, and prohibiting discrimination in schools. —Graham Kates, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2025 In a letter sent Monday, James' office reminded healthcare providers that denying care based on gender identity is considered discrimination under New York law. —Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 3 Feb. 2025 There have been initiatives to fight discrimination in the military at least since the Vietnam War. —Dexter Filkins, The New Yorker, 3 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for discrimination 
Word History
Etymology
see discriminate
First Known Use
1621, in the meaning defined at sense 3a
Time Traveler
The first known use of discrimination was in 1621
Dictionary Entries Near discrimination
Cite this Entry
“Discrimination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discrimination. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 7 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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