Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɪɡətri/

Definitions

1. (Noun) Intolerance toward those who are different or have different views, beliefs, or backgrounds.

2. (Noun) The state of being bigoted, characterized by narrow-mindedness and prejudiced opinions.

Usage Examples

• "The rise of bigotry in politics is a troubling sign of division in society."
• "He was accused of bigotry due to his discriminatory comments about immigrants."
• "Efforts to eliminate bigotry have been central to many social justice movements."

Etymology

The word "bigotry" first appeared in English around the early 17th century. It originally referred to a type of religious intolerance, deriving from the word "bigot" (which was used to describe someone who was excessively devout or hypocritically pious). Over time, the term evolved to include any form of prejudice, especially those based on race, religion, or social class. The modern meaning emphasizes intolerance toward diverse groups and opinions.

Synonyms

• Prejudice
• Intolerance
• Discrimination
• Racism
• Fanaticism

Antonyms

• Tolerance
• Open-mindedness
• Acceptance
• Inclusivity
• Fairness

Translations in Major Global Languages

Translations in Indian Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "bigotry" is pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable (/ˈbɪɡətri/).
• In British English, it is often pronounced as /ˈbɪɡətri/ with a slightly sharper 't' sound.
• In some regions, the pronunciation might soften the 't', making it sound closer to /ˈbɪɡədrɪ/.

Historical Usage

The term "bigotry" dates back to the 17th century, initially used to describe a form of religious intolerance. Over time, the term expanded to include general prejudices, especially those against people of different races, religions, or cultures. The word evolved to reflect societal challenges, particularly in the context of colonialism, slavery, and the spread of Western ideologies. In contemporary use, "bigotry" is often associated with discriminatory practices in both public and private life.

Cultural Nuances

Bigotry has deep cultural implications as it often stems from long-standing historical and social factors. In many societies, bigotry is seen as a divisive force that undermines social cohesion. Efforts to combat bigotry often focus on education, intercultural dialogue, and legal reforms aimed at promoting equality and justice. However, the persistence of bigotry, especially in areas like politics and religion, remains a significant challenge for many countries.

More Information

Bigotry remains one of the most prevalent societal issues worldwide, manifesting in many forms such as racism, sexism, and xenophobia. It is often linked to power dynamics where one group seeks to maintain its dominance over others. Anti-bigotry movements focus on highlighting these inequities, challenging discriminatory practices, and promoting inclusivity. Understanding the roots of bigotry and taking collective action is essential in creating a fair and just society for all.