microaggression

American  

[mahy-kroh-uh-gresh-uhn] / ˌmaɪ kroʊ əˈgrɛʃ ən /

noun

1. 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."

2. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of microaggression

First recorded in 1970; coined by psychiatrist Chester M. Pierce (1927–2016); micro- + aggression

Example Sentences

“In a situation where a microaggression occurs, I would want to deal with it as quickly as I could,” said Issaquah High School teacher Colleen Ball.

From Seattle Times • May 14, 2023

"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

The go-to response when a microaggression is committed is to say “I meant no harm.”

From Washington Post • Oct. 8, 2021

Then the video opens on Patrice, who says, “A microaggression is when someone says or does something that they might not even know is racist or sexist, but it is.”

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh