intersectional

American  

[in-ter-sek-shuh-nl] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛk ʃə nl /

adjective

1. of or relating to to an intersection, or a place where two or more roads, lines, or elements meet.

   intersectional traffic flow.

2. noting or relating to intersectionality, the theory that the overlap of social identities contributes to the specific type of oppression and discrimination experienced by an individual.

   Intersectional feminism raises the profile of underrepresented minority women and addresses many diverse challenges to gender equality.

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Etymology

Origin of intersectional

First recorded in 1845–50; intersection ( def. ) + -al ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

If sweeping appeals to our collective empathy have failed to resonate—if the public is not moved by Randy Fine’s intersectional shortcomings—maybe we are better off getting down in the muck.

From Slate • Feb. 12, 2026

Students who specialize in intersectional neologisms will be well prepared for Mellon-funded faculty jobs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

The junior from Palisades made a believer out of everyone who witnessed Thursday night’s season opener at Harvard-Westlake, catching four touchdown passes in the Dolphins’ 37-34 intersectional victory.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 29, 2025

By giving up the intersectional vision of the original abolitionist feminists, it leads to a divide in the movement.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2025

Women are intersectional human beings who live multi-issued lives.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad