microaggression

American  

[mahy-kroh-uh-gresh-uhn] / ˌmaɪ kroʊ əˈgrɛʃ ən /

noun

1. a subtle but offensive comment or action directed at a member of a marginalized group, especially a racial minority, that is often unintentionally offensive or unconsciously reinforces a stereotype.

   microaggressions such as "I don't see you as Black."

2. the act of discriminating against a marginalized group by means of such comments or actions.

   The diversity committee discussed the issue of microaggression toward women on campus.

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Etymology

Origin of microaggression

First recorded in 1970; coined by psychiatrist Chester M. Pierce (1927–2016); micro- + aggression

Example Sentences

There is a vast difference between a lynching and a microaggression, but that difference seems to sometimes get blurred on college campuses.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 9, 2023

"That is a linguistic microaggression, and it is a clear example of why understanding language and culture is in fact critically important to DEI work."

From Salon • Sep. 2, 2022

“As a Black person who has endured a lot of racism and microaggression, I wanted to understand how a well-meaning white person might still hurt you,” she said.

From New York Times • Jul. 17, 2022

Each microaggression chips at Jasmine and Gail’s resolve and enthusiasm to macro effect, giving “Master” its heartbreakingly pessimistic undertow.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2022

It then cuts to a series of students mentioning a microaggression.

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh