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

“One of the things that I think is most valuable is its diversity, which is exactly why I developed Sundance—a mechanism for developing new ideas and new talent.”

From Los Angeles Times

The words hit home in a room full of creatives struggling with how to walk a tightrope between corporate mandates to make money and not offend, and government attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion.

From Los Angeles Times

It also calls for an end to “personal statements, diversity narratives, or an applicant’s reference to racial identity” as a means to “justify discriminatory practices” in employment.

From Los Angeles Times

"We created the new standards to reflect the UK's diversity. Change is coming, but it will take time."

From BBC

"Britain is nation proudly built on tolerance, diversity and respect. Our flag represents our diverse country and we will never surrender it to those that use it as a symbol of violence, fear and division."

From BBC

Related Words

• diversification