What does "intersectional" mean?
Of or pertaining to an intersection, especially of multiple forms of discrimination (for example, the intersection of misogyny and racism which affects black women specifically).
Intersectional
/ˌɪn.təɹˈsɛk.ʃə.nl̩/ adj
adj ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: Of or pertaining to an intersection, especially of multiple forms of discrimination (for example, the intersection of misogyny and racism which affects black women specifically).
- Grammar: intersectional is listed as adj.
- Usage evidence: Intersectional discrimination is particularly difficult to identify in contexts where economic, cultural, or social forces quietly shape the background such that women are placed in positions where they are affected by some other system of [discrimination].
How to use "intersectional"
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Source and review context
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Definitions
Adjective
- 1 Of or pertaining to an intersection, especially of multiple forms of discrimination (for example, the intersection of misogyny and racism which affects black women specifically).
"Intersectional discrimination is particularly difficult to identify in contexts where economic, cultural, or social forces quietly shape the background such that women are placed in positions where they are affected by some other system of [discrimination]."
- 2 Existing or occurring between sections or groups.
"I have often thought of the many objections to "Civil War", "War between the States." As it was a war between the Northern and Southern sections of the United States, I have ventured to suggest "Intersectional War" as an appropriate name"
- 3 Of or relating to intersectionalism or intersectionality.
"Hunter has also been serving as coordinator for Jewish life and intersectional programming at the College of Wooster."
- 4 Encompassing or concerned with multiple different groups or the forms of discrimination they face (for example, inclusive of women of all races and people of color of all genders).
"“The revolution will be intersectional or it won't be my revolution” (or the more blunt and succinct “The revolution will be intersectional or it will be bullshit”) warn us of the dangers of single-issue/single-marginalization identity."
Example
"Intersectional discrimination is particularly difficult to identify in contexts where economic, cultural, or social forces quietly shape the background such that women are placed in positions where they are affected by some other system of [discrimination]."
Common questions
How do you use "intersectional" in a sentence?
Intersectional discrimination is particularly difficult to identify in contexts where economic, cultural, or social forces quietly shape the background such that women are placed in positions where they are affected by some other system of [discrimination].
How do you pronounce "intersectional"?
Pronounced /ˌɪn.təɹˈsɛk.ʃə.nl̩/.
Etymology
Etymology 1
From intersection + -al.
Etymology 2
From inter- + sectional.