ageism
AY-jiz-um
/ˈeɪdʒ.ɪ.zəm/
Prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person's age.
Most frequently refers to discrimination against older adults in employment, healthcare, or society, though it can theoretically apply to any age group.
The story behind the word. The term ageism was coined in 1969 by Dr. Robert Neil Butler, a physician and gerontologist who became the founding director of the National Institute on Aging. Butler defined ageism alongside racism and sexism, identifying it as a systematic bigotry against older citizens in housing and employment.
Word relationships
- age discrimination: Age discrimination is the formal legal term, whereas ageism encompasses broader social stereotypes and attitudes.
- inclusivity: Inclusivity means treating people of all backgrounds and ages fairly and equitably.
- respect: Respect involves valuing people regardless of age.
Commonly confused with
- aging: Aging is the natural process of getting older, whereas ageism is harmful prejudice based on age.
Word family
- ageist (adjective): Showing prejudice on the basis of age.
Collocations
- combat ageism
- workplace ageism
- institutional ageism
- victim of ageism
Example sentences
- "The company implemented new hiring guidelines to combat ageism and ensure older applicants were evaluated fairly." Workplace legislation
- "Media representations that portray senior citizens as technologically incompetent foster subtle forms of ageism." Sociological commentary
Memory hook
Age + -ism (like racism/sexism) = prejudice based on age. Prejudice against people based on age.
When not to use
Do not use ageism for objective, evidence-based medical treatments; it specifically denotes unfair bias or stereotyping.
Fun facts
- Dr. Robert Butler won the Pulitzer Prize in 1976 for his groundbreaking book 'Why Survive? Being Old in America', which brought ageism into national policy discussions.
Related words
Explore more words
discrimination, geriatric, prejudice, millennial, discriminatory, xenophobia
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