otherness

[uhth-er-nis]

noun

1. the state or fact of being different or distinct.

2. the quality or state of being perceived or treated as different, foreign, strange, etc..

   Certain ethnic groups embrace their otherness.

ˈotherness

/ ˈʌðənɪs /

noun

1. the quality of being different or distinct in appearance, character, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of otherness¹

First recorded in 1580–90; other + -ness

Example Sentences

How are these collaborations a small resistance to that cruel way of seeing otherness?

From Los Angeles Times

As a Kryptonian raised on Earth by human parents, the character has been shown in stories where he struggles with his own sense of otherness and belonging because he straddles two worlds.

From Los Angeles Times

The withholding nature of Chernin’s Leo poses some theatrical risks but goes a long way toward explaining how the character’s otherness could be turned against him in such a malignant way.

From Los Angeles Times

Penfolds refers to these blends as "wine of the world", and says that they "possess an otherness that can best be described as worldly".

From BBC

In 2008, Trump and others weaponized Barack Obama’s otherness against him, using the young Illinois senator’s background to sow doubt about his character, faith and citizenship status.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• characteristic 
• contrast 
• difference 
• differentiation 
• discrepancy 
• discrimination 
• divergence 
• division 
• judgment 
• nicety 
• perception 
• quality 
• sensitivity 
• separation