Showing results for "double standard"

SEE ALSO:

Slang dictionary results for double standard.

double standard

American  

[duhb-uhl stan-derd] / ˈdʌb əl ˈstæn dərd /

noun

• double standards
  plural

1. any code or set of principles containing different provisions for one group of people than for another, especially an unwritten code of sexual behavior permitting men more freedom than women.

2. Economics. bimetallism.

---

double standard British  

noun

1. a set of principles that allows greater freedom to one person or group than to another

---

double standard Idioms  

1. A set of principles establishing different provisions for one group than another; also, specifically, allowing men more sexual freedom than women. For example, She complained that her father had a double standard—her brothers were allowed to date, but she was not, even though she was older. [Mid-1900s]

---

Usage

What does double standard mean? Ideally, we should all be judged according to the same criteria. But when someone is treated differently than someone else in the same situation, especially when women are treated differently than men or men are given more freedom than women, we call that a double standard. How do you pronounce double standard?[ duhb-uhl stan-derd ]

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• double standards
  plural

---

Etymology

Origin of double standard

First recorded in 1950–55

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

double standard

Nonetheless, protesters say the backlash and the prime minister’s speech point to a troubling double standard.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 30, 2026

Robert Brusca, chief economist at FAO Economics, said Warsh was the victim of a double standard.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 4, 2026

Did the nation’s history and traditions set up this double standard and “allow Idaho to compel this sacrifice”? Winmill observed that Seyb had produced significant evidence to the contrary.

From Slate ● Jun. 16, 2026

The union that represents the department’s rank-and-file members has long complained of a double standard that lets well-connected officers and senior leaders off the hook.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 8, 2026

“I know it seems like a double standard, but your father needs to stay in constant contact with his business interests,” Mom added apologetically, slipping back into her chair.

From "The School for Whatnots" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---