favoritism

[fey-ver-i-tiz-uhm, feyv-ri-]

noun

1. the favoring of one person or group over others with equal claims; partiality.

   to show favoritism toward the youngest child.

2. the state of being a favorite.

Word History and Origins

Origin of favoritism¹

First recorded in 1755–65; favorite + -ism

Example Sentences

Noem’s actions in Naples suggest the injection of political favoritism into an agency tasked with saving lives and rebuilding communities wiped out by disaster.

From Salon

It’s revealed that his cynical nature stemmed from his days as an idealistic young pediatric surgeon whose patient was lost when an organ transplant intended for the child instead was given to another through favoritism.

From Salon

Indeed, it comes as the SBA claims to be putting a stop to political favoritism and wasteful spending.

From Salon

What he has a problem with, he said, is a bill that “singles out one billionaire’s project for favoritism.”

From Los Angeles Times

“I thought the favoritism was certainly warranted,” McCarthy said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discrimination 
• inequity 
• nepotism 
• partisanship 
• unfairness www.thesaurus.com