disparity

[dih-spar-i-tee]

noun

plural

disparities 

1. lack of similarity or equality; inequality; difference.

   a disparity in age; disparity in rank.

disparity

/ dɪˈspærɪtɪ /

noun

1. inequality or difference, as in age, rank, wages, etc

2. dissimilarity

Other Word Forms

• nondisparity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disparity¹

First recorded in 1545–55; from Middle French desparite, from Late Latin disparitās; equivalent to dis- ¹ + parity ¹

Synonym Study

See difference.

Example Sentences

The racial disparities that sparked Wilson’s activism at the dawn of the pandemic have narrowed but still exist.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The analysts said that the disparity between their estimate and the Street’s forecast keeps Nvidia as their top pick with the most upside.

Read more on MarketWatch

Despite frequent absences and consistent rumours about fragile health, he has succeeded in holding onto power through social upheaval, economic disparity and separatist violence.

Read more on Barron's

Even in industries with unions and automation safeguards, the disparity between employers and employees only grows more vast, and there are far fewer jobs than people who are looking for work.

Read more on Salon

One is the disparity in skill between the internationals and homegrown players.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• difference 
• discrepancy 
• distinction 
• divergence 
• gap 
• imbalance 
• inequality 
• variation