social justice

American

[soh-shuhl juhs-tis] / ˈsoʊ ʃəl ˈdʒʌs tɪs /

noun

fair treatment of all people in a society, including respect for the rights of minorities and equitable distribution of resources among members of a community.

Etymology

Origin of social justice

First recorded in 1825–30

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.

Its social contract is built on uncompromising moral standards, an emphasis on resolute social justice, and, of course, a distaste for those who fail to properly share those values.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

Sisters Nneka and Chiney Ogwumike have become leading voices for women in sports and social justice advocacy.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Bates-Chamberlain is founder and executive director of Live Free Chicago-Live Free Illinois, a social justice organization built on the Black church tradition.

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2026

Today, Smith continues to focus on social justice work, and has also collaborated with filmmaker Ryan Coogler, such as completing concept designs for his Oscar-nominated film “Sinners.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

She had complained that she joined the organization to do social justice work, not to be a travel agent.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023