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stigma

STIG-muh /ˈstɪɡmə/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLUPSC

GeneralAcademic

A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.

A stigma is not a physical mark (usually), but a social one that changes how a person is viewed by others.

The story behind the word. In ancient Greece, a 'stigma' was a literal brand or tattoo cut into the skin of slaves or criminals. It was a permanent, visible sign to everyone that this person was 'bad' or 'low.' While we no longer brand people with hot irons, the 'social' brand of stigma remains just as hard to wash off.

Word relationships

shame: Shame is an internal feeling; stigma is an external social label.
taint: Taint implies a corruption or spoiling of something's purity.

honor: Honor is high respect or great esteem.
prestige: Prestige is widespread respect and admiration based on achievements.

Commonly confused with

stigmata: Stigmata (plural) refers specifically to the religious phenomenon of marks appearing on the body resembling the wounds of Jesus.

Word family

stigmatize (verb): To describe or regard as worthy of disgrace.

Collocations

social stigma
attach a stigma
overcome a stigma
stigma of poverty

Idioms & expressions

a black mark
a stain on one's reputation

Example sentences

"The stigma surrounding mental illness often prevents people from seeking the help they desperately need." Discussing mental health awareness.
"Stigma is the process by which the reaction of others spoils normal identity." A sociological definition from a master of the subject. (Erving Goffman, 'Stigma')

Memory hook

A 'stigma' is like a 'stick' that society uses to 'mark' you. The invisible brand.

When not to use

Do not use to describe a literal physical scar unless you are using it metaphorically.

Fun facts

In botany, the 'stigma' is the part of a flower that receives pollen—a very different, non-judgmental meaning!