Meaning & Definition of word "Stereotype"
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Stereotype
/ˈstɛr.i.ə.taɪp/
noun:
- 1. A widely held but oversimplified and generalized belief or idea about a particular group of people or things.
- Example: The stereotype that all teenagers are irresponsible is not true for everyone.
- 2. An established and fixed image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.
- Example: The film challenges the stereotype of women in leadership roles as being overly emotional.
verb:
- 1. To view or represent someone or something in a simplified and generalized way.
- Example: It's unfair to stereotype individuals based on their cultural background.
- 2. To make a stereotype of someone or something.
- Example: The media tends to stereotype certain professions, portraying them in a narrow manner.
Etymology
From 'stereotype', derived from the Greek 'stereos' meaning 'solid' and 'tupon' meaning 'impression'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
breaking the stereotype:
Challenging or going against common beliefs about a group.
gender stereotype:
Preconceived notions about the roles or behaviors of men and women.
racial stereotype:
Generalized beliefs applied to individuals based on their race.
Related Words
bias:
An inclination or prejudice for or against something or someone.
prejudice:
A preconceived opinion not based on reason or actual experience.
generalization:
A general statement or concept obtained by inference from specific cases.
Slang Meanings of stereotype
Meaning: Typecast
Example Sentence: He's always typecasted as the funny best friend.
Meaning: Boxing
Example Sentence: Don't box me in with your stereotypes; I'm not like that.