benevolent sexism

American  

[buh-nev-uh-luhnt sek-siz-uhm] / bəˈnɛv ə lənt ˈsɛk sɪz əm /

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of benevolent sexism

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

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.

From Salon

“Many times, this is just play, with no deeper meaning. But other times, these behaviors …might signal that children view women in a negative light, as weak, incompetent, and unable to survive or thrive without a man’s help. The study, which examined the attitudes of more than 200 children, aged five to 11, also found that benevolent sexism decreased with age only for girls. “Boys may be less likely to recognize that their benevolent attitudes toward women are, in fact, patronizing.”

From The Guardian

Benevolent sexism often resembles chivalry, Robnett says.

From Seattle Times

In two words: Benevolent sexism, or attitudes toward women that seem well-intentioned but perpetuate inequality.

From Seattle Times

"Sad that it was even necessary. Biden keeps exhibiting this kind of Paleolithic behavior, and too many folks will excuse it because they’re used to seeing their male elders act like way. There is no such thing as benevolent sexism."

From Fox News