noun
-
the state or character of being neutral, esp in a dispute, contest, etc
-
the condition of being chemically or electrically neutral
Other Word Forms
- antineutrality noun
- nonneutrality noun
- semineutrality noun
- unneutrality noun
Etymology
Origin of neutrality
late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; see origin at neutral, -ity
Explanation
If you refuse to take sides in an argument over whether Batman or Superman is the greatest superhero, then you are practicing neutrality. Whether you admire both equally or you simply don’t care, you are a neutral party. Neutrality can be used broadly to describe individuals or organizations in relationship to any kind of dispute, but it most often refers to countries that don’t engage in war. For example, Sweden has a long and famous tradition of neutrality, as it has not gone to war since 1814. Referees for sporting events are also supposed to work from a position of neutrality — that is, they should never favor one team over another.
Vocabulary lists containing neutrality
American History II
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Western Europe - Introductory
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100 SAT Words Beginning with "N"
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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.
He simply chronicles the information as facts and does so with great neutrality.
From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026
The Constitution requires government neutrality toward religion, not silence.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026
Some experts believe the wind project is critical to California’s goal of 100% carbon neutrality by 2045 and represents a key climate change solution.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026
Issues around neutrality are likely to become particularly acute as OpenAI is expected to list publicly as soon as this year and competition ramps up with its AI peer Anthropic.
From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026
I was delivered to this mission deep in the jungle, where, amidst the careful neutrality of the sisters, a rumpled novice named Soeur Liselin might pass a few months unnoticed.
From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver
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.
