benevolent sexism

[buh-nev-uh-luhnt sek-siz-uhm]

noun

1. a form of sexism in which people, especially women, who conform to traditional gender roles are viewed in a positive manner.

Word History and Origins

Origin of benevolent sexism¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

The link with less responsive parenting didn't exist for mothers and fathers classed as disclosing "benevolent sexism," a term for attitudes romanticizing traditional gender roles by emphasizing the virtues of men as providers and protectors and women as caregivers, Overall says.

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Their strategy for years now has been to embrace a benevolent sexism, portraying abortion patients as "lost" women who simply don't know any better.

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This behavior is known as “benevolent sexism” in academic literature.

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No matter that these dramas hide everyone's pores and glosses over the hero's benevolent sexism.

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Sociologists often distinguish between "benevolent" sexism, which is often expressed in terms of "revering" and "protecting" women, and "hostile" sexism, commonly called "misogyny," or the hatred of women.

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