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segregation

seg-ruh-GAY-shun /ˌseɡ.rɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/

nounB2GRESATTOEFLIELTS

generalacademiclegal

The enforced physical or social separation of different racial, religious, or social groups.

Implies systematic spatial or institutional policy separating groups.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'segregare', which literally meant to separate a sheep from the flock. It combines 'se-' (apart) and 'grex' (flock). Over time, it evolved from agricultural animal sorting into a political term for institutional human separation.

Word relationships

separation: 'Separation' is a general term, whereas 'segregation' specifically implies systematic or institutional division.
partition: 'Partition' refers to dividing land or physical spaces into parts.

desegregation: 'Desegregation' is the active elimination of enforced separation.
integration: 'Integration' unites separated groups into a shared community.

Commonly confused with

aggregation: 'Aggregation' is bringing things together, whereas 'segregation' is keeping them apart.

Word family

segregate (verb): To isolate or divide from others.
segregated (adjective): Divided into separate groups or areas.

Collocations

racial segregation
residential segregation
enforce segregation
end segregation

Example sentences

"The Supreme Court decision declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional." Civil rights history
"Residential segregation remains a significant barrier to economic opportunity in many cities." Urban sociology

Memory hook

SEG (apart) + GREG (flock) = keeping sheep in separate flocks. Separated from the flock.

When not to use

Do not use for voluntary self-sorting or individual choice unless enforced by policy or strong cultural norms.

Fun facts

The Latin root 'grex' (flock) also gives us 'congregation' (flocking together) and 'gregarious' (fond of the flock).