diversity

[dih-vur-si-tee, dahy-]

noun

plural

diversities 

1. the state or fact of being diverse; difference; unlikeness.

   diversity of opinion.

   Antonyms: similarity, sameness, resemblance

2. variety; multiformity.

   Synonyms: multiplicity, heterogeneity, assortment, variation, dissimilarity, disagreement, contrast
   Antonyms: homogeneity

3. 1. the spectrum of individual differences and the corresponding group memberships and identities that human beings have in society.

      A functioning multicultural society celebrates the diversity of its people, but diversity can also be problematic for the maintenance of a cohesive national identity.

   2. the inclusion of individuals representing more than one national origin, color, religion, socioeconomic stratum, sexual orientation, etc..

      an initiative to increase diversity in the workplace.

4. a point of difference.

diversity

/ daɪˈvɜːsɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being different or varied

2. a point of difference

3. logic the relation that holds between two entities when and only when they are not identical; the property of being numerically distinct

Word History and Origins

Origin of diversity¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English diversite, from Anglo-French, from Latin dīversitās; diverse, -ity

Example Sentences

The grants have been cut off in response to ginned-up accusations that the universities haven’t done enough to combat antisemitism, or because they involved gender studies or “diversity.”

From Los Angeles Times

To win approval of the deal, Mr Ellison agreed to install an independent ombudsman at CBS to review complaints of bias and committed to regulators that programming would reflect a diversity of view points.

From BBC

The area of north Manchester in which the synagogue attack happened has long been home to various faith communities who live, work and worship alongside each other in what has been described as "unapologetic diversity".

From BBC

The government is also seeking changes over admissions, foreign student enrollment, diversity programs and other GOP priorities in higher education.

From Los Angeles Times

She called herself “a diversity hire” at the New York Times’ reliably liberal opinion section and gained a following through her appearances on HBO’s “Real Time With Bill Maher.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• diversification