exclusivity

Also ex·clu·sive·ness

[eks-kloo-siv-i-tee]

noun

1. the fact of shutting out some other thing; incompatibility.

   The apparent mutual exclusivity of their claims might seem to lead to inevitable conflict and deadlock.

2. the act or practice of shutting out all others from a relation, process, location, etc..

   The vows of marriage speak of exclusivity, permanence, and total self-giving.

   The program encourages mothers to maintain breastfeeding exclusivity—no formula or solid food—for the first six months of their infant’s life.

3. the tendency to resist including those who are different or do not meet a narrow set of criteria.

   The island’s population has maintained strong ties to cultural traditions—yet it is not a culture of exclusivity, but one that provides pathways for all to prosper.

4. the fact or quality of catering to, or being restricted to, affluent or upper-class people, often by virtue of comparatively high prices.

   It is one of the most fashionable vacation hotspots in the world, with a reputation for exclusivity, luxury, and breathtaking beauty.

5. a provision in a contract or piece of legislation that shuts out competition.

   Ending handset exclusivity will allow cell phone carriers to attract customers based on network quality and the services offered.

Other Word Forms

• semiexclusiveness noun
• semiexclusivity noun
• ultraexclusiveness noun
• ultraexclusivity noun
• unexclusiveness noun
• unexclusivity noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exclusivity¹

First recorded in 1880–85; from French exclusivité, equivalent to exclusiv(e) ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

Because of the Le Creuset’s high price point and exclusivity, many fans wait all year for these sales to stock up.

From Salon

The price and exclusivity of Kith Ivy aligns with Erewhon’s own high-end reputation.

From Los Angeles Times

As Oasis tunes poured from the speakers, the space blended past and present, along with exclusivity.

From Los Angeles Times

The tribes have exclusivity for Class 3 gaming in California.

From Los Angeles Times

“For nearly two decades we have worked under the same basic hot dog exclusivity provisions,” the statement from MLE said.

From Salon

Related Words

• particularity