Stigma
STIG-muh
/ˈstɪɡmə/
A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
Implies a negative societal perception or judgment that can lead to discrimination or social exclusion. It's often deeply ingrained.
The story behind the word. "Stigma" comes directly from the Greek word "stigma," which originally referred to a mark made by a pointed instrument, often a brand or tattoo used to identify slaves, criminals, or religious devotees. In English, it retained this sense of a distinguishing mark, but by the 17th century, it evolved to mean a mark of disgrace or infamy, a figurative brand on one's reputation.
Word relationships
- disgrace: Public shame or dishonor; "stigma" is often a mark that leads to disgrace.
- discredit: Harm the good reputation of; "stigma" is the negative mark itself.
- honor: High respect; "stigma" is the opposite.
- prestige: Widespread respect and admiration.
Commonly confused with
- stereotype: A stereotype is an oversimplified idea about a group; a stigma is a negative mark or attribute associated with a person or group, often based on stereotypes.
Word family
- stigmatize (verb): to describe or regard as worthy of disgrace or disapproval.
- stigmatization (noun): the act of stigmatizing.
Collocations
- social stigma
- mental health stigma
- overcome stigma
- reduce stigma
- bear the stigma
Example sentences
- "There is still a significant stigma associated with mental illness, preventing many from seeking help." Discussing mental health.
- "In some ancient societies, certain professions carried a social stigma that limited opportunities." From a historical text.
Memory hook
"STIG-ma" sounds like "STICK-ma" – a negative label that sticks to someone. Mark of disgrace.
When not to use
For simple negative opinions; it suggests a widespread, often unfair, and deeply discrediting mark.
Fun facts
- In botany, the "stigma" is the receptive tip of a carpel or pistil in a flower, where pollen lands. This is a separate, unrelated meaning.
Related words
Explore more words
stigmatize, ignominy, disgraced, indignity, opprobrium, ignominious
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