microaggression
Americannoun
-
a subtle but offensive comment or action directed at a member of a marginalized group, especially a racial minority, that is often unintentionally offensive or unconsciously reinforces a stereotype.
microaggressions such as "I don't see you as Black."
-
the act of discriminating against a marginalized group by means of such comments or actions.
The diversity committee discussed the issue of microaggression toward women on campus.
Etymology
Origin of microaggression
First recorded in 1970; coined by psychiatrist Chester M. Pierce (1927–2016); micro- + aggression
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
There is a vast difference between a lynching and a microaggression, but that difference seems to sometimes get blurred on college campuses.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 9, 2023
Joftus recalled another incident she saw as a microaggression.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 22, 2022
"That is a linguistic microaggression, and it is a clear example of why understanding language and culture is in fact critically important to DEI work."
From Salon ● Sep. 2, 2022
Each microaggression chips at Jasmine and Gail’s resolve and enthusiasm to macro effect, giving “Master” its heartbreakingly pessimistic undertow.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 17, 2022
It then cuts to a series of students mentioning a microaggression.
From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
