Meaning & Definition of Stereotype in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A fixed and overgeneralized belief or idea about a particular group or class of people.

  Example Sentence: The stereotype that all teenagers are rebellious is not always true.

• Definition: An unvarying or oversimplified representation of someone or something, especially in media.

  Example Sentence: The film relies on stereotypes to portray its characters.

• Definition: A standardized image or idea that can lead to prejudicial assumptions.

  Example Sentence: Stereotypes can influence people's perceptions and interactions.

Etymology

Origin: From 'stereotype', derived from the Greek 'stereos' meaning 'solid' and 'tupon' meaning 'impression'.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: estereotipo

• French: stéréotype

• German: Stereotyp

• Russian: стереотип

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.