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

Lest the president’s remarks be insufficient to demonstrate the point that other Americans, with their competing vision of a country made great through its incredible diversity, we can once again rely on his supporters.

From Salon

Make clear, in other words, that the diversity we tout in our admissions materials remains a fundamental part of our mission — even when politicians use federal funding to undermine our institutional values.

From Salon

"Our enemies don't fear diversity quotas. They fear American firepower," she said.

From BBC

Amid whatever contentious points they wanted to score, presidents have nearly always reverted to some broad-minded but nonspecific celebration of diversity and pluralism.

From Salon

Private businesses weakened by diversity policies and political corruption require the firm hand of government to set them straight.

From BBC

Related Words

• diversification