Meaning

The belief that there are distinct human races with inherent differences which determine their abilities, and generally that some are superior and others inferior..

Definitions by Sense

1. The belief that there are distinct human races with inherent differences which determine their abilities, and generally that some are superior and others inferior.
2. The policies, practices, or systems (e.g. government or political) promoting this belief or promoting the dominance of one or more races over others.
3. Prejudice or discrimination based upon race or ethnicity; (countable) an action of such discrimination.

Example Sentences

It is altogether inaccurate to suggest that Europe is being indoctrinated with Fascism or Racism.

He lost his racism when he worked with a black man in Chicago. He lost his homophobia when he was befriended and looked after by his gay neighbors, a doctor and a nurse, in Little Rock.

But other kinds of talk and text that are not visible, so called covert racist discourse, may be just as important in reproducing the culturally shared ideas that underpin racism.

Martin Luther King spoke out against racism.

In part, the answer is that racism extends considerably beyond prejudiced beliefs. The essential feature of racism is not hostility or misperception, but rather the defense of a system from which advantage is derived on the basis of race. The manner in which the defense is articulated – either with hostility or subtlety – is not nearly as important as the fact that it insures the continuation of a privileged relationship. Thus it is necessary to broaden the definition of racism beyond prejudice to include sentiments that in their consequence, if not in their intent, support the racial status quo.

In “Crazy for This Democracy” (1945), Hurston critiques the US government's racism at home and abroad, including its silence on the anticolonial movements in Africa.

For, if racism against non-whites is morally wrong and unjustifiable, then how can racism against whites be morally right and justifiable?

This was partly true, but the biggest thing stopping him was that he had tried going to a college in Adelaide before and grew tired of the little racisms and discrimination that he got there.

Word Forms

• racisms

Synonyms for racism

Related Words

When Should You Use Racism?

Use racism when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions