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
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.
Germany has a legally binding goal of achieving greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045.
From Barron's ● Aug. 28, 2026
Although Kacey Musgraves has singles in the Parton school of “let people live,” she doesn’t have the luxury of public neutrality that Dolly did.
From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2026
And if you do know her, silence is not neutrality.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 7, 2026
The update approved in May will remove 118 million allowances from the market by 2030, and 900 million after 2030, which officials say will keep California on its path to carbon neutrality by 2045.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 7, 2026
The witches had a consulate in the town, and John Faa knew that without their help, or at least their friendly neutrality, it would be impossible to rescue the captive children.
From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman
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.
